The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Ensign Kendall Hutchinson Cram (NSN: 0-175270), United States Naval Reserve, for gallantry in action on 28 February 1943. As officer in charge of a Navy armed guard aboard the merchant vessel S.S. WADE HAMPTON, stricken by an enemy torpedo attack, Ensign Cram remained at his station persistently alert for sight of the enemy. Disregarding his own danger and the order “abandon ship,” he remained aboard until two of his injured Navy gunners were safely away on 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.