The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lieutenant John Calhoun Bower, Jr. (NSN: 81488), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as pilot of a Fighter Squadron embarked in U.S.S. HORNET (CV-8), during the successful aerial action against Japanese Naval forces on 26 October 1942, near Santa Cruz Islands. Lieutenant Bower courageously and fearlessly engaged numerous enemy fighters over the enemy fleet, enabling a striking force of torpedo bombers to reach and attack the objective. His plane was hit by enemy fire and crashed into the sea. He has been reported as missing in action. His conduct, conspicuous for its gallantry and intrepidity, contributed in large measure to the heavy damage inflicted upon the enemy. 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.