The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Boatswain’s Mate Second Class William D. Upshaw, United States Navy, for gallantry in action off Guadalcanal, on 1 November 1942. Despite the shock of being hurled overboard into the oil-covered sea, Boatswain’s Mate Second Class Upshaw was able to save himself by a line over the side and after being hauled aboard his warship reassembled his gun crew to its former combat efficiency. 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.