The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander Orlin Lester Livdahl (NSN: 0-60431), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Gunnery Officer of the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during the Stewart Island engagement 24 August 1942, and the aerial attack on Japanese naval units near the Santa Cruz Islands on 26 October 1942. By the excellent training and efficient direction of the anti-aircraft batteries of his ship, Lieutenant Commander Livdahl and his gun crew in both of these engagements accomplished the outstanding feat of shooting down nearly half of the attacking planes. By thorough preparation and the cool, deliberate, and able manner in which he directed the fire of his batteries, he contributed immeasurably to the success of his ship in these engagements. His great courage and distinctive performance of duty under fire were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.