The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Seaman Second Class Clifton E. Yarborough, United States Navy, for gallantry in action while serving aboard the U.S.S. Smith, in action against the enemy. Seaman Second Class Yarborough displayed indomitable fighting spirit and outstanding devotion to duty while serving aboard the U.S.S. Smith during an engagement with Japanese forces in a battle to the northwest of the Santa Cruz Islands in the Solomon Islands. With the forecastle ablaze from a crashed Japanese plane, and enemy aircraft fiercely attacking his crippled ship, Seaman Second Class Yarborough, despite serous burns ab out the arms and face, left his own destroyed gun and joined the powder supply line tat the engaged guns, until ordered to retire to the battle dressing station. The gallant actions and devotion to duty demonstrate ed by Seaman Second Class Yarborough reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.