The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Captain Ernest Gregor Small, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. SALT LAKE CITY (CA-25), during action against enemy Japanese naval forces off Savo Island during the Battle of Cape Esperance on the night of 11 – 12 October 1942. Due to his aggressiveness and determined action, and through his skill and devotion to duty, a superior Japanese force heading for Guadalcanal was destroyed or turned back. In one phase of this engagement his excellent seamanship was a deciding factor in protecting the heavily hit U.S.S. BOISE from further damage. The success of this action prevented a planned Japanese attack on our positions at Guadalcanal and prevented the enemy from landing reinforcements on that island. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Naval service.