The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Commander Alexander Bacon Coxe, Jr. (NSN: 0-71493), United States Navy, for meritorious service to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of a Destroyer-Minelayer operating as a unit of a Task Group during minelaying operations and bombardment of Japanese shore positions on Kolombangara, Shortland and Bougainville, British Solomon Islands, on the night of 29 June 1943. Operating in poorly charted waters under cover of inclement weather, Lieutenant Commander Coxe skillfully executed his assigned missions and brought his ship through without damage. By his courage and able seamanship, he contributed materially to the successful mining of waters used extensively by enemy vessels. His conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.