The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Robert W. Lassen, United States Navy, for gallantry in action as Torpedo Officer aboard the U.S.S. MONSSEN (DD-436) during action against Japanese forces off Guadalcanal on the night of 12 November 1942. He sighted and scored two torpedo hits on a Japanese battleship and one possible hit on another vessel without the aid of illumination and while his ship was under tremendous bombardment. Temporarily driven from his station by gunfire, he returned and, while attempting to give aid to wounded shipmates, was struck down, and severely injured by flying shrapnel. 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.