The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Fletcher Hale, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. SIGOURNEY (DD-643), during operations in Leyte Gulf and Surigao Strait, Philippine Islands, from 19 to 25 October 1944. Participating in the occupation of Leyte as a unit of the fire support and bombardment group, Commander Hale skillfully directed his ship in the successful performance of screening duties in dangerous waters despite heavy enemy mortar fire and air attacks. Engaging major units of the Japanese Fleet during the Battle of Surigao Strait, he, without serious damage to his own ship, contributed materially to the defeat of the enemy Fleet. By his outstanding leadership, perseverance and devotion to duty, Commander Hale upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.