The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant [then Lieutenant, Junior Grade] William Beauregard Hosey (NSN: 0-123483), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in the line of his profession as acting First Lieutenant and Damage Control Officer of a United States Ship when his vessel encountered a superior enemy force and engaged them in a long battle during World War II. He operated his damage control parties at an extremely high rate of efficiency. His conduct and leadership throughout was exemplary and together with his cooperation with the engineering force, was in large measure responsible for saving his ship from serious damage. His conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.