The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant William W. Hargrave, United States Navy, for gallantry in action in the vicinity of the Netherlands East Indies on 5 February 1942. After landing his seriously damaged plane without injury to its occupants, he led survivors and others picked up en route through 600 miles of enemy-occupied territory, eventually reaching the Australian mainland, where his men returned to their stations for further duty. 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.