The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Watertender Second Class Romny B. Boyle (NSN: 3368036), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving on board the U.S.S. DUNCAN (DD-485) during the engagement with Japanese naval forces off Savo Island on the night of 11 October 1942. Watertender Second Class Boyle repeatedly attempted to prevent fires from spreading in the area around #1 Fireroom. By determined effort, he succeeded in clearing the flames away from #1 Engine Room escape hatch long enough to permit the engineroom crew to escape. His courageous conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.