The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Heman Judd Redfield (NSN: 0-9655), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. MISSISSIPPI (BB-41), in action against enemy Japanese forces from 17 October to 18 November 1944, and on Luzon, Philippine Islands, on Leyte, Philippine Islands, from 28 December 1944 to 10 February 1945. Participating in the assault and landings on these vital strongholds, Captain Redfield skillfully directed his ship in delivering prolonged and highly effective fire support despite continuous enemy air attacks which damaged his ship. By his leadership and devotion to duty, he contributed materially to the success of the operations and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.