William Allerton Sparling

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to William Allerton Sparling, Boatswain’s Mate Second Class, U.S. Coast Guard, for conspicuous gallantry as Coxswain of Boat No. 2 of the U.S.S. McKEAN (APD-5) during action against enemy Japanese forces during the landing on Tulagi Island on 7 August 1942. Forming part of the initial assault wave, Boatswain’s Mate Second Class Sparling landed his embarked troops, and then made three return trips in the face of terrific enemy fire to land equipment, ammunition and supplies. On September 8 he affected a successful landing against a Japanese force at Taivu Point on Guadalcanal Island. His proficient leadership and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.