The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Barry Kennedy Atkins (NSN: 0-71483), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Commander of Motor Torpedo Boat Squadron EIGHT (MTB-8), and as Commanding Officer of Advanced Bases from February to October 1943. In addition to participating in numerous hazardous patrols as Officer in Tactical Command, Commander Atkins labored tirelessly in the preparation of detailed plans for the assigned nightly missions, executing his duties so effectively that the resupply of enemy positions was materially reduced. On two occasions, when vessels under his immediate command engaged a force of enemy Japanese barges with vigorous gunfire, he skillfully maneuvered for maximum striking power and succeeded in sinking eleven hostile ships. Commander Atkins' brilliant leadership and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.