The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Torpedoman’s Mate Third Class Walter John Hogan, United States Navy, for gallantry in action when he was blown clear of his gun three times while serving as a gunner on board a United States warship during action against the Japanese off Guadalcanal in 1942. Torpedoman’s Mate Third Class Hogan was knocked flat by the blast from a 5-inch gun firing nearby, but returned each time to his station, manning his gun with such effective and accurate fire that an approaching enemy plane was shot down. 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.