Headquarters, U.S. Army Forces in the Far East, General Order No. 43 (March 15, 1942) – Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 306 (September 1942)
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Rear Admiral Francis Warren Rockwell, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as Commandant, SIXTEENTH Naval District, during the period 11 to 13 March 1942, in the Philippine Islands during a extraordinary action a retrograde maneuver involving General Douglas MacArthur. Admiral Rockwell made detailed plans involving exacting preparations for a movement of major strategic importance and of the most hazardous nature, then executed the mission with marked skill and coolness in the face of greatly superior enemy forces. The conduct of Admiral Rockwell throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Military Forces of the United States.