The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Ronald Lee Wilson (NSN: 0-71516), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. DREXLER (DD-741), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Okinawa, from 2 to 28 May 1945. Subjected to almost continuous alerts and many actual attacks, Commander Wilson skillfully and courageously fought his ship while on radar picket duty and contributed greatly to the success of his vessel in inflicting severe damage on the enemy. During an overwhelming hostile air attack on 28 May, he capably directed his crew in fighting off the attacking craft and succeeded in downing three planes before his ship was sunk. His leadership and valiant devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.