The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant (DC) John L. Stockton, Jr., United States Navy, for gallantry in action while serving as a Dental Officer with a Marine Aircraft Group at Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on the night of 13 – 14 October 1942. When Japanese naval units and aircraft started a vicious bombing attack on Guadalcanal, Lieutenant Stockton left a place of safety and went to the aid of a wounded officer about 40 yards away. Disregarding his own safety, he assisted in removing the injured officer and other casualties to a hospital. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.