For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of a United States Destroyer during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Philippine-Formosa Area, October 13, 1944. While his ship was stationed as picket ship for a Task Group, Commander Stephan gave timely warnings of continuous enemy night air attacks threatening all Task Groups of the Carrier Task Force and, during one night torpedo plane attack, initially engaged the enemy, breaking up the attack by shooting down three hostile planes. His courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Captain Stephan is a life member and resided in Virginia