The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander Ralph A. Wilhelm, United States Navy, for gallantry in action as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. DENT (DD-116) in the Solomon Islands on 25 June 1943. Lieutenant Commander Wilhelm directed gunfire and operations of his vessel through dangerous waters and under frequent attack in transporting troops and supplied to establish a vital beachhead on New Georgia in advance of the main attack. 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.