The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander William E. Townsend, United States Navy, for gallantry in action as flight deck officer of a United States Aircraft Carrier during the engagement with Japanese naval units near the Santa Cruz Islands on 26 October 1942. He coolly and courageously directed the flight deck activities and took immediate action in controlling and extinguishing a blaze which broke out amidst the planes on deck. He carried on in spite of the tremendous difficulties and great hazards attendant upon the devastating fire from large numbers of enemy aircraft continually attacking the carrier. 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.