The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Seaman Second Class Homer W. Procter, United States Navy, for gallantry in action north of Santa Cruz Islands, on 26 October 1942. With the forecastle ablaze from a crashed Japanese plane, Seaman Second Class Proctor, despite serious burns about the arms and face, left his destroyed gun and joined the powder supply line at the engaged guns until ordered to retire to the battle dressing station. 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.