The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Gunner Ralph W. Cook, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while attached to the Minesweeper U.S.S. PIGEON (AM-47), during a Japanese aerial attack in the Philippine Islands, on 10 December 1941. Gunner Cook assisted in the work of towing a submarine to safety and in clearing the docks of the Cavite Navy Yard of naval vessels and yard craft. His 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.