The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain [then Commander] Royal Allen Wolverton (NSN: 0-63286), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. MURPHY (DD-603), during the amphibious assault on Normandy, France, 6 June 1944, and the bombardment of Cherbourg, France, 25 June 1944. Maneuvering through heavily mined waters and under intense and accurate gunfire from enemy shore batteries, Captain Wolverton directed his ship in delivering devastating fire against enemy fortifications and gun emplacements and in screening heavy ships from enemy surface forces and submarines. His leadership and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.