The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Commander Frederick Warren Purdy (NSN: 0-72289), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Executive Officer of the U.S.S. STRONG (DD-467), when that vessel was torpedoed and sunk by enemy Japanese forces in Kula Gulf, Solomon Islands, 5 July 1943. Working desperately and with no thought of his own safety during the seven minutes in which the rescue vessel was alongside, Lieutenant Commander Purdy aided all the enlisted men on the forecastle of the stricken ship over the side by way of hand lines. Continuing his courageous efforts in behalf of others aboard, he was last seen searching for an injured member of the crew reported to be on the deck behind the gun mount. Lieutenant Commander Purdy’s heroic spirit of self-sacrifice and his inspiring conduct throughout a hazardous and critical period were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.