The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Chief Boatswain’s Mate Robert O. Byers, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving as range-finder aboard the Destroyer U.S.S. STERRETT (DD-407), during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island on the night of 12 – 13 November, 1942. Chief Boatswain’s Mate Byers courageously remained at his battle station and continued to perform his duties as range-finder, accurately and efficiently, despite painful shrapnel wounds, until ordered to leave during a lull in the battle. Chief Boatswain’s Mate Byers’ gallant actions and selfless devotion to duty, without regard for his own safety, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.