The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the

SILVER STAR MEDAL to

PhMC HERMAN BALLARD

United States Navy

For service as set forth in the following

CITATION:

     "The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Chief Pharmacist's Mate Herman Ballard, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action. During the initial landing at Empress Augusta Bay, Bougainville, Solomon Islands, Chief Pharmacist's Mate Ballard landed with the First Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division, and sustained the collecting section with that unit throughout two days of ierce fighting on Cape Torokina, 1 to 2 November 1943. He was again attached to the First Battalion, Third Marines, on 7 November 1943, during the battle of Laruma Lagoon, as the Chief in charge of the collecting station. During the battle of Piva Forces, 18 to 26 November 1943, Chief Pharmacist's Mate Ballard's collecting section rendered invaluable service in evacuating wounded from the field of battle. His coolness under fire, his untiring efforts, and unflagging devotion to duty were an inspiration to both his men and the combat troops. He imparted courage to the other men around him, and lthough constantly under enemy artillery, mortar, machine gun, and rifle fire, he maintained a smooth flow of casualties from thefront lines to the ships on 1 November 1943, and to the Medical Companies on 7 November, and 18 - 26 November 1943. His work during these engagements was above and beyond the call of duty, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."