The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Gunner’s Mate First Class Peter S. Aiken, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving in Motor Torpedo Boat ONE HUNDRED EIGHTY-EIGHT (PT-188), attached to a Motor Torpedo Boat Squadron operating in the Solomon Islands area from 16 April to 14 December 1943. Gunner’s Mate First Class Aiken’s performance as leading gunner aboard his boat was outstanding at all times. During the New Georgia operations his craft was subjected to numerous attacks by enemy aircraft and barges. On many occasions he voluntarily rode other boats on dangerous and perilous missions in which enemy craft was engaged. In every instance he displayed outstanding qualities of leadership, courage and loyalty. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.