The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain [then Commander] James Henry Hogg (NSN: 0-61171), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. YARNALL (DD-541), during operations against enemy Japanese forces on Palau, 6 September 1944; Mindanao and Visayas from 9 to 14 September 1944; Luzon, 21 and 22 September 1944; Nansei Shoto and Formosa from 8 to 14 October 1944 and the Second Battle of the Philippine Sea from 24 to 26 October 1944. Directing his ship as part of a Fast Carrier Task Force Unit, Captain Hogg provided a screen of heavy and accurate anti-aircraft fire, assisting materially in repelling four determined enemy aircraft attacks, thereby preventing damage to the Task Group. Advancing the YARNALL to serve as picket for the Task Group, he assisted his ship in shooting down four enemy planes and probably shot down two others, avoiding two torpedoes and two bombs from the attacking aircraft. His courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.