For extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer USS CLAXTON (DD-571), during an engagement with Japanese naval forces at Empress Augusta Bay, off Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on the night of 1-2 November 1943. With his Task Force engaging a Japanese surface force of superior fire power, Commander Stout hurled the full fighting strength of his ship against the enemy and, by his inspiring leadership and skilled combat tactics, aided his Task Force in sinking five hostile warships, damaging four others and in completely routing the enemy, thereby contributing materially to the successful establishment of our beachhead on Bolugainville Island. His determination, relentless fighting spirit and gallant devotion to duty upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Commander Herald Franklin Stout, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer USS CLAXTON (DD-571), during the bombardment of Buka airfield with a small Task Force, on the night of 16-17 November 1943. During this period the squdron destroyed one Japanese submarine, shot down five enemy planes, thwarted three torpedo plane attacks in enemy controlled waters and bombarded Buka airfield without loss or damage. In order that the guns of his ship might be close enough to their objective to inflict maximum destruction of enemy installations, Commander Stout, coolly, fearlessly and with expert seamanship maneuvered his vessel extremely close to dangerous reefs. The fire of his guns was directed with telling accuracy and contributed greatly to the destruction of enemy installations. His gallant fighting spirit, remarkable courage and valiant determination served as an inspiration to the crew of the ship. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.