The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander Robert Kyle Ashton (NSN: 100542), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving aboard the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), on the night of 4 December 1943, in rescuing four men from a compartment below decks almost demolished by an enemy torpedo hit, for directing the rescuing of four additional men who were trapped in the steering room, and for, in general, exercising exceptional ability and judgment in a hazardous situation. He entered gas-filled and water-filled compartments many times without regard for his own personal safety. The continuing enemy attacks and the ever-present threat of collapsing bulkheads did not deter him in the performance of his duty. His courage and fearless action was an inspiration to his men and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.