The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Boatswain’s Mate First Class Robert J. Perry, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving on board the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO (CA-38), in the action against Japanese naval forces in the Solomon Islands area on the night of 12 – 13 November 1942. With inspiring courage, Boatswain’s Mate First Class Perry took charge of the starboard battery after the officer in charge had been injured. He rushed ammunition to the gunners under heavy shell fire, fought fires started by enemy hits, and cared for the wounded. Boatswain’s Mate First Class Perry’s gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.