The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Arthur Henry Berndtson (NSN: 0-85000), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services in combat. On the Night of 1 – 2 August 1943, he participated as Division Commander in an attack in Blackett Strait against five enemy destroyers attempting to reinforce the enemy garrison at Vila, Kolombangara. He made two probable hits on an enemy destroyer. On the night of 4 – 5 August 1943 he led an attack on enemy barges when weather conditions rendered visual contact impossible. A torpedo shot was made by radar, a hit was scored and the barge was sunk. This was the first time such a shot had been accomplished. Again, on the morning of 20 August, Lieutenant Berndtson’s division was heavily bombed and strafed by aircraft. Although one boat was sunk and two damaged, all personnel were saved, including three survivors of a downed B-25 and the boats were brought safely to port. During the New Georgia, British Solomon Islands Campaign, this officer as Division Commander, did perform extraordinary arduous duty which contributed materially to the interruption of enemy shipping in Vella Gulf, then bordered entirely by Japanese held islands. On many occasions he has participated in engagements with enemy aircraft, landing craft, destroyers and shore batteries. His leadership, judgment and courage in combat at all times during the New Georgia Campaign have been exceptionally meritorious and far above average merit expected of our fighting men. 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.