The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Robert Russell Williams, Jr. (NSN: 0-73460), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. FINBACK (SS-230), during the TENTH War Patrol of that Submarine in action against enemy Japanese forces from 16 August to 4 October 1944. With aggressive and well planned approaches, Commander Williams successfully penetrated enemy air and surface escort screens to launch torpedo attacks against vital targets and sink a hostile tanker and a freighter totaling 1,900 tons. In addition, his skillful planning and determination enabled him to rescue five downed United States Naval aviators despite Japanese air opposition and shore batteries which forced him to dive on several occasions. A courageous and daring leader, Commander Williams effectively evaded enemy countermeasures and returned the FINBACK to port without damage, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.