The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Albert Finley France, Jr. (NSN: 0-17040), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Commanding Officer of the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO (CA-38), member of a Carrier Task Group, during combat against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Kwajalein and Wotje Atolls, from 27 November to 10 December 1943. When three enemy torpedo bombers flew in at low-level over the ships for a sudden attack, Captain France maneuvered his vessel with outstanding tactical skill, successfully evading a hostile torpedo launched at close range. Although subjected to intense strafing from the enemy aircraft, his gun crews manned their guns with deadly accuracy, sending up vigorous fire which destroyed all three hostile planes. Throughout fierce night aerial assaults on a later occasion, he again fought his ship with aggressive determination, repeatedly forcing enemy aircraft to withdraw before reaching advantageous striking positions. Captain France’s brilliant leadership and courageous devotion to duty under fire were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.