The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander John Sim Slaughter, United States Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity in action as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. WELLES (DD-628), during operations in Leyte Gulf and Surigao Strait, Philippine Islands, from 19 to 25 October 1944. Lieutenant Commander Slaughter’s ship participated in the occupation of Leyte as a unit of the Fire Support and Bombardment Group, performing Screening Duty in dangerous waters, continually subjected to the successful completion of the mission. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.