The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Silver Star to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Donald John MacDonald (NSN: 0-70259), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Executive Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. O’BANNON (DD-450), in action against enemy Japanese forces off Vella Lavella, Solomon Islands, on the night of 6 – 7 October 1943. Assigned the hazardous task of intercepting and preventing an attempt by hostile forces to evacuate beleaguered Japanese troops from the area, Commander MacDonald fearlessly sought out and engaged nine enemy ships, closing immediately to 7,000 yards and delivering a devastating torpedo attack followed by accurate and effective gunfire. When another vessel of his small squadron was severely damaged during the furious battle and in a sinking condition, he skillfully maneuvered his own damaged ship alongside and removed the survivors, subsequently directing a thorough search of the surrounding waters in an effort to locate others. By his expert tactical knowledge and inspiring leadership in the face of overwhelming odds, Commander MacDonald contributed in large measure to the sinking and damaging of several Japanese vessels and returned the O’BANNON safe to base. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Donald John MacDonald (NSN: 0-70259), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. O’BANNON (DD-450), in the van of a small Task Force during an engagement with enemy Japanese surface vessels off Kolombangara Island, Solomon Islands, on the night of 12 – 13 July 1943. When his ship encountered a covering force of Japanese cruisers and destroyers, Commander MacDonald skillfully maneuvered his ship into position and, in the face of heavy enemy fire, launched an aggressive and determined torpedo and gunfire attack in coordination with other destroyers in the task force. While at least four hostile ships were destroyed and two damaged and forced to retire as a result of this action, he and his gallant command brought the O’BANNON through the engagement unscathed. His brilliant seamanship and indomitable fighting spirit were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.