The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander [then Lieutenant] Eric Earle Hopley (NSN: 0-123452), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Torpedo Data Computer Operator on board the U.S.S. FLYING FISH (SS-229), during the TWELFTH War Patrol of that Submarine in enemy-controlled waters of the Japanese Sea along the eastern coast of Korea from 29 May to 4 July 1945. By his keen knowledge of the fire control equipment and the torpedo data computer, Lieutenant Commander Hopley rendered valuable assistance to his Commanding Officer in pressing home attacks which sunk or damaged more than 3,180 tons of hostile shipping and in successfully evading all enemy countermeasures. His courage and devotion to duty upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.