The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Distinguished Service Medal to Admiral William Frederick Halsey, Jr. (NSN: 0-5035), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States as Commander South Pacific Force and South Pacific Area from 19 October 1942 to 7 December 1943. During this period, Admiral Halsey’s forces drove the Japanese out of the central Solomons and finally established bases on Bougainville Island. During offensive operations in the Solomons, Admiral Halsey was in command of all naval forces and of certain Army amphibious and air forces. He indoctrinated his Command with his own fighting spirit and determination to destroy the enemy and secured the life line to Australia and the Southwest Pacific.