The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Eugene Trefethen Seaward (NSN: 0-58812), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. FARENHOLT (DD-491), engaged in the assault and occupation of Rendova Island and subsequent operations against the New Georgia Islands during the period from 30 June to 13 July 1943. Commander Seward’s ship assisted in covering the transport group in the assault on Rendova and on several occasions subsequently has covered the movement of troops and supplies into the restricted waters of Blanche Channel which was known to be frequented by Japanese submarines and surface vessels. His ship also participated in the bombardment of enemy shore positions with outstanding results. During all of these operations his ships has been repeatedly subjected to enemy air and submarine attack, and bombardment by enemy shore batteries. By his promptness in engaging the enemy batteries and thereby drawing their fire, and by the excellent performance of his ship, the enemy batteries were silenced and the transports were able to complete unloading and retire without loss or damage. On all occasions he has demonstrated outstanding courage, skill, determination, and devotion to duty. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.