The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Chief Boatswain’s Mate John Riley Bussard (NSN: 3363737), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity and devotion to duty aboard the U.S.S. WALKE (DD-146). In spite of great personal danger during the action between U.S. Naval Forces and Japanese Naval Forces on 15 November 1942, in the vicinity of Guadalcanal. Chief Boatswain’s Mate Bussard, after the order to abandon ship had been given, inflated the life jackets of several injured men lying on the decks of the rapidly sinking WALKE and assisted them in leaving the ship. He personally launched two life rafts and a floater net from the after part of the ship. Finally he inspected the topside for any injured personnel and left the fantail shortly before the ship sank. His delay in leaving the ship caused his death, for he was caught in the underwater explosion. His action saved the lives of several of his shipmates who were able to reach the rafts he had launched. 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.