The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander William Jefferson Giles, Jr. (NSN: 0-70120), United States Navy, for especially meritorious service as Executive Officer and Navigator of the U.S.S. JOHN D. EDWARDS (DD-216), in the battles of Badoeng Strain on 19 – 20 February, and the Java Sea on 27 February 1942, and in the engagement in Bali Straits on 1 March 1942. In the Battle of Badoeng Strait he conned the ship with exceptional skill and coolness through narrow waters under heavy enemy cross fire and chased salvoes so successfully that the ship escaped damage. During the night engagement in Bali Strait on 1 March 1942, he displayed consummate skill and courage in navigating the ship of Destroyer Division FIFTY-EIGHT at high speed through the narrow and treacherous waters of Bali Strait, skirting dangerous reefs in the midst of a sharp engagement with three enemy warships. His steady nerve, sound judgment and courage following an exhausting week of almost constant action against overwhelming enemy forces were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.