The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Seaman First Class W. C. Valentine, Jr., United States Navy, for gallantry in action while serving aboard the U.S.S. NORTHAMPTON (CA-26), in action off Savo Island, on 30 November 1942. Menaced by heat and bursting ammunition after his ship had been damaged by a torpedo hit, Seaman First Class Valentine climbed atop the flame-enveloped structure of the mainmast to administer first aid to a severely injured shipmate. 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.