The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Gunner’s Mate Third Class Samuel J. Rufi, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving on board a United States Warship during the opening offensive against Japanese shore positions in Tulagi Bay, Solomon Islands, on 7 August 1942. Gunner’s Mate Third Class Rufi and a comrade entered the smoking mount after an explosion occurred in the forward 5-inch gun mount aboard his warship, causing a number of casualties, and extinguished the flames from the burning clothing of two injured and unconscious members of the gun crew, and then assisted in carrying them to safety. Gunner’s Mate Third Class Rufi’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.