The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Chief Gunner’s Mate Drayton John Capo, United States Navy, for gallantry in action aboard the U.S.S. NORTHAMPTON (CA-26) during action against Japanese naval forces off Savo Island on the night of 30 November 1942. While inspecting ammunition supply below decks during a lull in the battle, Chief Gunner’s Mate Capo was thrown against the starboard bulkhead by a torpedo explosion and forced into an adjacent compartment by the resulting pressure of escaping air. Regaining his feet, he immediately proceeded to open hatches, for the release of trapped personnel, to flood magazines and above deck to assist injured men into life rafts during abandonment of that vessel. When there were no more life jackets available on the fantail, he put his own on a non-swimmer and helped him from the ship’s side to the safety of a life raft. 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.