The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander James Hampden Howard, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving aboard the U.S.S. NEW ORLEANS (CA-32), during an engagement with enemy Japanese naval forces in the Solomon Islands Area, on the night of 30 November 1942. After his ship had been severely damaged by a terrific explosion, Lieutenant Commander Howard, with utter disregard for his own personal safety, entered gas-filled and flooding compartments and worked tirelessly to save his ship. His skill, courage, and outstanding devotion to duty were an inspiration to his men and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.