The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Captain Samuel Power Jenkins, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Light Cruiser U.S.S. ATLANTA (CL-51), during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island on the night of 12 – 13 November, 1942, on which occasion the force to which he was attached engaged at close quarters and defeated a superior enemy force. Captain Jenkins’ daring and determination contributed materially to the victory which prevented the enemy from accomplishing their purpose. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.