The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Neill Duncan Brantly (NSN: 0-20483), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Executive Officer of the U.S.S. DENVER (CL-58), operating as a unit of a Task Force during a bombardment of Japanese airfields and shore installations in the Vila-Stanhope area on Kolombangara, British Solomon Islands, on the night of 5 March 1943. While proceeding through Kula Gulf to the target area, the Task Force engaged and sank two enemy destroyers. By his skillful seamanship and able direction of the officers and men under his supervision, Commander Brantly contributed materially to the success of the surface engagement and to the successful completion of the bombardment mission. His courage in an exposed position was an inspiration to all aboard and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.