The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain [the Commander] Walter Frederick Boone (NSN: 0-27936), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Executive Officer of the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Battle of Santa Cruz, on 26 October 9142. With his ship under vicious attack by an overwhelming force of Japanese aircraft, Captain Boone expertly maintained control of every department on board ship, rendering invaluable service to his Commanding Officer throughout the fierce action and contributing materially to the infliction of extensive damage and destruction on the enemy with minimum damage to the ENTERPRISE. By his cool and resourceful supervision of the internal organization of the ship, his outstanding ability and his valiant spirit maintained in the face of grave danger, Captain Boone served as an inspiration to all officers and men on board and his zealous devotion to duty throughout reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.




