The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Ensign Allen Wesley Bain (NSN: 0-79316), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against the enemy on the night of 30 November to 1 December 1942, during the engagement with enemy surface forces off Tassafaronga, Guadalcanal, in which as Flagship of the Task Force the MINNEAPOLIS participated. As Officer-in-Charge of the Forward Repair Party, Ensign Bain was stationed at Repair Headquarters on the 2d deck forward. When the ship was struck by torpedoes, one caused an explosion in the aviation gasoline stowage which blew off about 80 feet of the bow, started a fire in what remained of the anchor windglass room, and flooded the forward magazines. Ensign Bain immediately and with the utmost courage and at imminent personal risk of being blown overboard or otherwise injured by the blast of the forward 8″ turrets which were still siring sharp on the bow, proceeded to the scene of the fire and with outstanding bravery and heroism directed the fire fighting detail which soon extinguished the flames. As soon as the fire was out, Ensign Bain made a rapid survey of the forward portion of the ship, ascertained the extent of the damage and reported it to Central Station. This intelligent and fearless action was of great value in the damage control efforts. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.