The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander William Sidney Stewart (NSN: 0-78823), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. HENDERSON (DD-785), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea from 13 to 15 September 1950. An officer of outstanding professional ability and resourcefulness, Commander Stewart skillfully navigated his ship through a hazardous enemy mine field and, entering the strongly fortified harbor of Inchon, conducted an effective close-in bombardment against hostile shore installations and gun emplacements. Defying the deadly and ever increasing fire from hidden enemy batteries scattered along the coastline, he boldly continued to direct furious counterfire on the hostile fortifications until the defenses were sufficiently neutralized to permit the successful amphibious landings of friendly forces at Inchon. By his marked courage, expert seamanship and loyal devotion to the fulfillment of vital operations, Commander Stewart upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.