Coast Guard

ALLISON, SAMUEL W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Samuel W. Allison, Lieutenant, U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry in action as Commanding Officer of U.S.S. LCI(L) 326 during amphibious landings on the French coast on 6 June 1944. Displaying superb seamanship and dauntless courage, Lieutenant Allison successfully landed units of the Army, then stood off the beach for salvage duty. Realizing that the services of a control boat were urgently needed, he volunteered for this assignment and, in the face of concentrated shell fire and constant threat of exploding mines, effectively directed boat traffic throughout the remainder of the initial assault.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Texas

ANDERSON, ALVIN KENNETH
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Alvin Kenneth Anderson, Boatswain's Mate Second Class, U.S. Coast Guard, for conspicuous gallantry as coxswain of a scout boat wile attached to the U.S.S. CHARLES CARROLL (APA-28) during the amphibious assault to Salerno, Italy, on 9 September 1943. In the face of extreme hazards, Boatswain's Mate Second Class Anderson proceeded through mined water an assigned position close offshore and maintaining this station for three hours under fire.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Illinois

ARNOLD, ARTHUR A.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Arthur A. Arnold, Boatswain's Mate Second Class, U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry in action as coxswain of a landing boat in the assault on Sicily, on 10 July 1943. With the landing operations halted by an intense volley from heavy enemy machine guns which killed many of the embarked troops upon beaching, Boatswain's Mate Second Class Arnold courageously countered the fierce hostile attack. Realizing that return fire from his boat was ineffective he unhesitatingly exposed himself to the withering barrage and aiming with cool deliberation hurled two grenades into the enemy emplacement and succeeded in silencing the entire battery, thereby enabling our units to continue their advance into enemy occupied territory.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Virginia

BRALLIER, BRET H.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Bret H. Brallier, Commander, U.S. Coast Guard, for conspicuous gallantry in action as Executive Officer of the USCGC CAMPBELL (WMEC-909) during and following the sinking of an enemy submarine on 22 February 1943. When his ship surprised the hostile vessel on the surface and collided with it during an attempt to ram, Commander Brallier, by his expert conning throughout a vigorous engagement, contributed materially to the sinking of the submarine by gunfire and depth charges and to the capture of several members of its crew. Afterward he rendered invaluable assistance to his commanding officer in the successful control of damage aboard the cutter and her safe towage into port. His courageous leadership and conscientious devotion to duty were in keeping the highest traditions of the U. S. Naval Service.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Maryland

BRESNAN, JOSEPH A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Joseph A. Bresnan, Commander, U.S. Coast Guard, for gallantry in action as a Deputy Assault Group Commander during the assault on France 6 June 1944. He took station close to the beach under heavy assault enemy fire and remained under heavy fire making spot decisions reorganizing grouping and dispatching craft to the beach thereby contributing greatly to the success of the operation.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Alabama

BURKE, RAYNER C.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Rayner C. Burke, Chief Quartermaster, U.S. Coast Guard, for conspicuous gallantry while serving aboard the USCGC CAMPBELL (WMEC-909) during the sinking of an enemy submarine by that vessel on 22 February 1943. When his commanding officer was wounded during the course of the action, Chief Quartermaster Burke immediately took charge of searchlight, which the injured man had been compelled to abandon. Directing its beam on the hostile vessel., he provided effective target illumination for accurate gunfire which eventually sent the submarine to the bottom.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: New York

CANTILLION, MATTHEW P.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Matthew P. Cantillion, Lieutenant (j.g.), U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for gallantry in action as a member of a Navy Beach Party in the amphibious attack on Biak Island, Schouten Group, Dutch New Guinea, on 27 May 1944. When members of the party landed on Green Beach and were subjected to severe ground fire from Japanese troops in two caves in the cliff near the beach, Lieutenant (j.g.) Cantillion procured hand grenades, a weapon with which he was unfamiliar, from a soldier returned to the cliff area and by ground fire eliminated the enemy resistance, killing the four Japanese in the caves. By his imitative, courage and resourceful fighting qualities under fire, he defeated enemy resistance and made possible the expeditious landing of vital material without casualty.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Ohio

*CENTOFANTI, ENIO JOHN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Enio John Centofanti (00518700), Seaman First Class, U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a member of gun crew serving on board the U.S.S. CALLAWAY (APA-35) in action against the Japanese in Pacific waters on 8 January 1945. Manning his station aggressively when the vessel was attacked by a Japanese suicide plane Seaman First Class Centofanti unhesitatingly relinquished all chance of escape as the plane plunged toward the target, and, remaining steadfastly at his gun, continued to direct his fire with unrelenting fury upon the enemy until carried away with his weapon by the terrific impact. With indomitable fighting spirit and unyielding devotion to duty, Seaman First Class Centofanti gallantly gave his life for country.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Columbus, Ohio

COWART, KENNETH K.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Kenneth K. Cowart, Commander, U.S. Coast Guard, for conspicuous gallantry as Engineer Officer on the USCGC CAMPBELL (WMEC-909) during and following the sinking of an enemy submarine on 22 February 1943. When his ship surprised the enemy vessel on the surface and collided with it during an attempt to ram, Commander Cowart, by his expert direction of engine operation, contributed materially to the sinking of the submarine by gunfire and the capture of several members of her crew. When the cutter began to take water as a result of a large rupture in her side plating he bravely stood by his station in the flooding engine room and supervised damage control.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Virginia

DANNISON, BYRON G.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Byron G. Dannison, Chief Boatswain's Mate, U.S. Coast Guard, for conspicuous gallantry in action while serving as coxswain of a heavy landing craft during the amphibious assault in the Bay of Salerno, Italy, on 9 September 1943. Skillfully maneuvering his boat in the face of intense enemy gunfire, Chief Boatswain's Mate Dannison successfully landed troops and heavy vehicles and although frequently subjected to hostile aerial strafing attacks, worked tirelessly and with outstanding efficiency in salvaging damaged and breached boats on the beach throughout the remainder of the operations.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Michigan

DENMAN, DOUGLAS C.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Douglas C. Denman, Coxswain, U.S. Coast Guard, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving aboard the U.S.S. CALHOUN (APD-2) during an undetected Japanese air attack off Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands the night of 30 August 1942. Stationed in Boat No 4, Coxswain Denman although he was severely wounded by fire after two bombs struck the ship, persisted in remaining on duty and with the aid of a shipmate carried two injured men to the bow of the boat and floated them clear. Together they threw overboard thirty kapok life jackets and called them to the attention of the survivors struggling in the water.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Georgia

DEXTER, DWIGHT HODGE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Dwight Hodge Dexter, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Coast Guard, for conspicuous gallantry in action against an armed enemy as Commanding Officer of the naval Local Defense Force and Anti-Submarine Patrol, Guadalcanal-Gavutu. Lieutenant Commander Dexter landed with the Marines on 7 August 1942 and established and administered the Naval Local Defense Force in these occupied islands until 5 November 1942, on which date he was evacuated due to illness. During the three months while he was in command of this unit, he was subjected to almost daily aircraft bombing attacks and for many weeks to an almost nightly naval bombardment. Throughout this entire period, his courage, determination and zeal made it possible to maintain in operation a signal station and a boat operating organization which was essential to the successful unloading of many troops and many thousands of tons of supplies to the forces ashore. By his courage in the face of great hardship and danger, he set an example which was an inspiration to all who served with him.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: New York

ECKARDT, GARNET H.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Garnet H. Eckardt, Motor Machinist's Mate First Class, U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for gallantry and intrepidity in action as a member of a salvage boat crew attached to the U.S.S. CAVALIER (APA-37) while participating in assault landings against the enemy in Lingayen Gulf, Luzon, Philippine Islands on 9 January 1945. Facing intense enemy mortar fire, Motor Machinist's Mate First Class Eckardt displayed exceptional courage, skill, initiative and devotion to duty while aiding in the salvage of numerous landing craft stranded on the beach. Disregarding his own safety and under continuous enemy fire, he unhesitatingly plunged into the water and assisted in the rescue of a man who had been hurled over board by the explosion of an enemy shell.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: California

ELMER, ROBERT P., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Robert P. Elmer, Jr., Lieutenant (j.g.), U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry in action while serving as officer in charge of salvage boat while attached to the U.S.S. JOSEPH T. DICKMAN (AP-26) during the assault at Salerno, Italy, on 9 September 1943. Braving intermittent enemy bombing and strafing attacks, Lieutenant (j.g.) Elmer skillfully directed the recovery of damaged and stranded assault craft upon the various landing beaches.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Connecticut

EMERSON, ROBERT E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Robert E. Emerson, Lieutenant (j.g.), U.S. Coast Guard, for gallantry in action during the assault on Eniwetok Atoll, Marshall Islands, during the period 17 to 22 February 1944. As boat group Commander, Lieutenant (j.g.) Emerson led his landing boat group, under fire, in three separate attacks upon islands of Eniwetok Atoll. His cool and skillful direction, initiative and efficiency contributed materially to the successful participation of his ship in the assault.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: California

*FRITCH, ROLLIN ARNOLD
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Rollin Arnold Fritch (00534391), Seaman First Class, U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a member of gun crew serving on board the U.S.S. CALLAWAY (APA-35) in action against the Japanese in Pacific waters on 8 January 1945. Manning his station aggressively when the vessel was attacked by a Japanese suicide plane, Seaman First Class Fritch unhesitatingly relinquished all chance of escape as the plane plunged toward the target and remaining steadfastly at his gun, continued to direct his fire with unrelenting fury upon the enemy until carried away with his weapon by the terrific impact. With indomitable fighting spirit and unyielding devotion to duty in the valiant defense of his ship Seaman First Class Fritch gallantly gave his life for his country.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Pawnee City, Nebraska

GALLOWAY, GRADY RANSOM
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Grady Ransom Galloway, Lieutenant, U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry in action while serving as Amphibious Scout and Beach Marking Officer during the amphibious assault at Salerno, Italy, on 9 September 1943. Displaying great daring Lieutenant Galloway placed his craft in the center of the landing beach within 200 yards of enemy machine gun emplacement. When intense hostile fire swept the area as the first wave of boats attempted to land, he coolly directed the firing of a rocket barrage over coming immediate enemy resistance and enabling out forces to beach successfully.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: North Carolina

GARRETT, ARTHUR OWEN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Arthur Owen Garrett, Ensign, U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for gallantry and intrepidity in action in October 1944 as a member of an assault unit participating in the landing in Leyte Gulf, Philippine Islands. In the face of enemy rifle, machine gun and mortar fire Ensign Garrett bravely prepared the way for the operations of combat troops contributing greatly to the success of this mission.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: California

*GERCZAK, JOSEPH
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Joseph Gerczak, Signalman Third Class, U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving on board the U.S.S. LST 66 during the initial assault against the enemy Japanese-held Borgen Bay Area of New Britain on 26 December 1943. When seven Japanese dive bombers suddenly attacked while his ship was in the bay awaiting the formation of the task unit then on the beach unloading cargo, Signalman Third Class Gerczak immediately manned his battle station and was the first to open fire. When the planes came in and struck from starboard, he poured his drums of ammunition into the attackers with unrelenting fury, blasting two from the sky and into the sea near his vessel. With his ship struck by bomb fragments, each bursting successively closer, he dauntlessly continued delivering a steady stream of bullets against the enemy until he was fatally struck down when a violent blast silenced his weapon and forced shrapnel into his gun shield. By his expert marksmanship, unwavering perseverance and cool courage in the face of tremendous odds, Signalman Third Class Gerczak contributed materially to the success of this as well as previous assault and reinforcement landings in the New Guinea Campaign, and his constant devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Pennsylvania

GIFORD, HARRY C.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Harry C. Giford, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Coast Guard, for gallantry and intrepidity aboard the U.S.S. CALLAWAY (APA-35) in her action against the enemy in the Southwest Pacific area on 8 January 1945. By his cool and capable direction, the engine room force was led in the operation of the ships machinery in spite of the fire, smoke and exploding ammunition caused by enemy action. As a result of his capable leadership the ship was enable to continue on her primary mission in the assault of Lingayen Gulf on the day following.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Massachusetts

GISLASON, GENE R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Gene R. Gislason, Lieutenant, U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for outstanding heroism as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. LCI (L) 94, while landing assault troops in Normandy on 6 June 1944. Lieutenant Gislason successfully directed his ship through numerous beach obstacles to the proper beach, discharged his troops and retracted while his ship was seriously damaged from heavy enemy fire. Ship's communications, engine telegraph and electric steering were disabled by direct hits on the pilothouse which killed three crewmen, and one screw and shaft were rendered inoperative by beach obstacles. By his coolness under fire and excellent seamanship, Lieutenant Gislason overcame these difficulties and brought his ship off the beach on hand steering and one screw. He later supervised repairs and in four hours enabled the LCI (L) to remain operative in the assault area for three weeks.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Wisconsin

GUNTHER, ALVIN F.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Alvin F. Gunther, Chief Machinist's Mate, U.S. Coast Guard, for gallantry in action while attached to the USCGC CAMPBELL (WMEC-909) on 22 February 1943, when an enemy submarine was severely damaged and sunk and during the ensuing period when the USCGC CAMPBELL, which was damaged in the engagement, was towed safely into port. Handicapped by rapidly rising water and the arcing of electrical equipment being sprayed with salt water, Gunther descended to the engine room bilges to establish more accurately the size and location of the hole in the ship's side and to investigate the possibility of reducing the flooding. Afterwards his efficient assistance to the engineer officer of the watch helped minimize the damage to important machinery.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: New York

HAGGLOVE, JONAS TORGNY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Jonas Torgny Hagglove, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Coast Guard, for gallantry and intrepidity aboard the U.S.S. CALLAWAY (APA-35) during her action against the enemy in the Southwest Pacific area on 8 January 1945. Although suffering from severe burns, Lieutenant Commander Hagglove led the damage control party and as result of his capable leadership much was done to control the damage to his ship, enabling her to perform his primary mission in the assault of Lingayen Gulf on the following day.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Virginia

HAINRIHAR, ANTON J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Anton J. Hainrihar, Chief Watertender, U.S. Coast Guard, for conspicuous gallantry while serving aboard the USCGC CAMPBELL (WMEC-909) during and following the sinking of an enemy submarine by that vessel on 22 February 1943. When the engine room flooded as a result of the attack upon the hostile vessel, Chief Watertender Hainrihar, by his calm direction of necessary operations in the fire room, set an inspiring example to the other members of the crew and helped to sustain morale throughout the duration of the emergency. His tireless devotion to duty, maintained from 8 to 12 hours a day with the vessel in a precarious position was in keeping with the highest tradition of the U.S. Naval Service.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Illinois

HARRIS, GLEN LIVINGSTON
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Glen Livingston Harris, Surfman, U.S. Coast Guard, for gallantry in action as coxswain of a boat of the U.S.S. McKEAN (APD-5) on 7 August 1942 during the landing on Tulagi Island, which boat with seven other constituted the first assault wave. Surfman Harris landed his embarked troops and then made repeated trips during that day and on the 8th and 9th, in spite of heavy enemy fire to effect the landing of equipment, ammunition and supplies and on 8 September 1942, he made a landing against a Japanese force at Taivu Point, Guadalcanal Island thereby materially contributing to the successful operations in which the enemy were defeated.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: North Carolina

HARRISON, BENJAMIN F.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Benjamin F. Harrison, Machinist, U.S. Coast Guard, for conspicuous gallantry as Assistant to the Engineer Officer and the Damage Control Officer of the USCGC CAMPBELL (WMEC-909) during and following the sinking of an enemy submarine by that vessel on 22 February 1943. When the engine room flooded and main engines failed as result of the attack upon the hostile ship, Machinist Harrison rendered invaluable assistance to the officers in the their efforts to cover a hole in the ship's side. His tireless devotion to duty contributed greatly to the salvaging of the damaged vessel.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Virginia

HENDLEY, COIT T.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Coit T. Hendley, Lieutenant (j.g.), U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for heroism as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. LCI (L) 85 while landing assault troops in Normandy, France, on 6 June 1944. Lieutenant Hendley successfully landed his troops despite the mining of his vessel, fire in three compartments and a concentration of enemy fire while unloading. His courage and seamanship in directing repairs and retracting from the beach resulted in saving the lives of many wounded aboard.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: South Carolina

HOYLE, ROBERT
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Robert Hoyle, Lieutenant (j.g.), U.S. Coast Guard, for conspicuous gallantry in action against the enemy at Engebi and Parry Islands, Eniwetok Atoll, Marshall Island, where he landed with the assault waves on 18 and 22 February 1944. Under devastating enemy fire and without regard for his personal safety Lieutenant (j.g.) Hoyle immediately and continuously exposed himself to enemy fire in order to perform his duties and beach master. On both Engebi and Parry Island he acting on his own initiative, made his way through heavy enemy fire to relation urgent messages to the Landing Team commander.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: California

*HUGHES, CHARLES JOSEPH
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Charles Joseph Hughes (00542717), Seaman First Class, U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a member of a gun crew on the U.S.S. CALLAWAY (APA-35) in action against Japanese forces in the Pacific on 8 January 1945. Manning his station aggressively when the vessel was attacked by Japanese suicide plane, Seaman First Class Hughes unhesitatingly relinquished all chance of escape as the plane plunged toward the target and remaining steadfastly at his gun, continued to direct his fire with unrelenting fury upon the enemy until carried away with his weapon by the terrific impact. With indomitable fighting spirit and unyielding devotion to duty in the valiant defense of his ship Seaman First Class Hughes gallantly gave his life for his country.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Rensselaer, New York

HUNT, JAMES S.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to James S. Hunt, Commander, U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry in action while serving as Boat Group Commander of the Assault Craft attached to the U.S.S. SAMUEL CHASE (APA-26) during the amphibious invasion of Italy on 9 September 1943. Successfully leading his assault boat crews to the assigned beaches in the Gulf of Salerno, Commander (then Lieutenant Commander) Hunt expedited the landing of embarked troops and equipment in the face of tremendous enemy opposition. Making an extended reconnaissance in an assault boat beyond the established beaches and under heavy enemy artillery fire on 10 September, he obtained valuable information which assisted greatly in the effective employment of assaulting forces against strongly defended enemy positions.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Washington, D.C.

HUTCHINSON, GEORGE F.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to George F. Hutchinson, Lieutenant (j.g.), U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for gallantry in action against the enemy as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. LCI (L) 83 while landing assault troops in Normandy, France, on 6 June 1944. Lieutenant Hutchinson directed his ship to the beach through heavily mined obstacle while under heavy enemy fire that caused numerous Army casualties, successfully unloaded troops after the ship was mined and remained with the ship effecting repairs that enabled it to come off the beach on the next tide.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements

IMLAY, MILES HOPKINS
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Miles Hopkins Imlay, Captain, U.S. Coast Guard, for conspicuous gallantry as Deputy Commander of an Assault Group participating in the initial invasion on the coast of France, on 6 June 1944. Undaunted by heavy enemy fire, Captain Imlay courageously took station close to the shore on the early morning of D-Day and, throughout the most bitter period of the fighting, coolly and promptly made spot decisions on the reorganization, grouping and dispatching of craft to the beach, subsequently relieving the Task Group Commander of his duties when he withdrew his transport from the assault area. Immediately thereafter, he was placed in charge of operations afloat as assistant to the Naval Officer in Charge of one of the beaches and, discharging the duties of this responsibility with distinctive professional ability, contributed essentially to the rapid clearing of the backlog of ships.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Connecticut

IVY, CHARLES B.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Charles B. Ivy, Motor Machinist's Mate First Class, U.S. Coast Guard, for heroism as a crew member of a Coast Guard Cutter during the rescue operations off the French coast in June 1944. Motor Machinist's Mate First Class Ivy, when a PC was hit by enemy shellfire and many of her crew thrown into the water, volunteered to go over the side and try to rescue some of the survivors. Through his gallant action the loss of life was kept at a minimum.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: New York

JENNINGS, DAMON
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Damon Jennings, Chief Machinist's Mate, U.S. Coast Guard, for conspicuous gallantry as engineering officer of the watch while serving aboard the USCGC CAMPBELL (WMEC-909) during and following the sinking of an enemy submarine by that vessel on 22 February 1943. When the engine room flooded as a result of the attack upon hostile ship, Chief Machinist's Mate Jennings in the face of rapidly rising water calmly directed engine room personnel in carrying out the orders of the engineer officer. By his sound judgment and timely initiative he helped prevent serious damage to vital machinery and contributed greatly to the final salvaging of the vessel.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: New York

JOHNSON, CHARLES F.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Charles F. Johnson, Boatswain's Mate Second Class, U.S. Coast Guard, for gallantry and intrepidity in action as a member of a salvage boat crew attached to the U.S.S. CAVALIER (APA-37) while participating in assault landings against the enemy in Lingayen Gulf, Luzon, Philippine Islands on 9 January 1945. Facing intense enemy mortar fire Boatswain's Mate Second Class Johnson displayed exceptional courage, skill, initiative and devotion to duty while aiding in the salvage of numerous landing craft stranded on the beach. Disregarding his own safety and under continuous enemy fire, he unhesitatingly plunged onto the water and assisted in the rescue of a man who had been hurled over board by the explosion of an enemy shell.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Massachusetts

*KING, SAM W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Sam W. King (00241027), Coxswain, U.S. Coast Guard, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a member of a gun crew serving on board the U.S.S. CALLAWAY (APA-35) in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific on 8 January 1945. Manning his station aggressively when the vessel was attacked by a Japanese suicide plane, Coxswain King unhesitatingly relinquished all chance of escape as the plane plunged toward the target and remaining steadfast at his gun and continued to direct his fire with unrelenting fury upon the enemy until carried away with his weapon by the terrific impact. With indomitable fighting spirit and unyielding devotion to duty in the valiant defense of his ship Coxswain King gallantly gave his life for his country.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Dallas, Texas

LAWRENCE, WILLIAM G.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to William G. Lawrence, Chief Boatswain's Mate, U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for gallantry in action while attached to the U.S.S. SAMUEL CHASE (APA-26) during the amphibious invasion of the Island of Sicily on 10 July 1943, and of the Italian mainland on 9 September 1943. Operating a specially fitted landing boat which had been converted for salvage and rescue work, Chief Boatswain's Mate Lawrence in the face of constant enemy aerial attack and intense artillery fire effected the salvage of approximate one hundred broached and stranded craft immediately after the initial assault near Gela, Sicily. Later under similar perilous conditions he returned to service a large number of disabled craft after the assaults on the beaches in the Gulf of Salerno. His valuable services contributed materially to the effective support of the invasion forces during two major amphibious operations.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: New Jersey

LEGATES, WALTER L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Walter L. LeGates, Chief Watertender, U.S. Coast Guard, for conspicuous gallantry while serving aboard the USCGC CAMPBELL (WMEC-909) during and following the sinking of an enemy submarine by that vessel on 22 February 1943. When the engine room flooded and the main engines failed as result of the attack upon the hostile ship, Chief Watertender LeGates, laboring throughout the night with neither sleeps nor rest, rendered invaluable assistance to the Assistant Damage Control Officer. His courageous perseverance contributed greatly to the final salvaging of the damaged vessel and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: New Jersey

LIGHT, DAVID F.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to David F. Light, Seaman First Class, U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action during the amphibious invasion of Sicily on 10 July 1943 and of Italy on 9 September 1943.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Texas

LILLY, C. B.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to C. B. Lilly, Boatswain's Mate Second Class, U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry in action while attached to the U.S.S. JOSEPH T. DICKMAN (AP-26) during the amphibious assault at Salerno, Italy, on 9 September 1943. after landing vehicles upon the designed assault beach in the face of intense enemy gunfire, Boatswain's Mate Second Class Lilly observed five soldiers struggling in the water and went to their rescue. Discovering three of the men were seriously wounded he worked desperately under exceedingly difficult conditions and succeeded in bringing them safe ashore.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Texas

LONG, WILSON K.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Wilson K. Long, Lieutenant (j.g.), U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry in action on 26 January 1944, while attached to an LST during the amphibious invasion at Anzio, Italy. During a full gale, Lieutenant (j.g.) Long volunteered to take a landing boat to a burning LST nearby. Despite the fact that the burning ship was pitching and rolling in a dangerous manner and ammunition was exploding, he affected the rescue of a soldier, trapped in a lower compartment without means of escape, by removing him through a hole in the side of the ship.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: California

MANN, FREDERICK D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Frederick D. Mann, Boatswain's Mate First Class, U.S. Coast Guard, for conspicuous gallantry while attached to the U.S.S. GEORGE F. ELLIOTT (AP-13) in action against Japanese forces off Guadalcanal on 8 August 1942. When a hostile plane was shot down and exploded on board the ship, transforming the ship into a blazing torch, Boatswain's Mate First Class Mann carried a fire hose into the troop ammunition magazine to flood the compartment. Subsequently, despite suffocating smoke and dangerously heated bulkheads, he reentered the compartment, recovered the hose and continued his efforts. His action prevented the magazine from exploding.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Virginia

*MARTIN, RALPH EUGENE (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Ralph Eugene Martin (00572459), Seaman Second Class, U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for gallantry and intrepidity as a member of a gun crew on the U.S.S. CALLAWAY (APA-35) in action against Japanese forces in the Pacific on 8 January 1945. Manning his station aggressively when the vessel was attacked by a Japanese suicide plane, Seaman Second Class Martin unhesitatingly relinquished all chance of escape as the plane plunged toward the target and, remaining steadfastly at his gun, continued to direct his fire with unrelenting fury upon the enemy until carried away with his weapon by the terrific impact. With indomitable fighting spirit and unyielding devotion to duty in the valiant defense of his ship Seaman Second Class Martin gallantly gave his life for his country.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Wichita, Kansas

MILLER, HAROLD C.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Harold C. Miller, Boatswain's Mate Second Class, U.S. Coast Guard, for gallantry in action as coxswain of boat No. 3 of the U.S.S. McKEAN (APD-5) on 7 August 1942, during the landing on Tulagi Island, which boat with seven others constituted the first assault wave. Boatswain's Mate Second Class Miller landed his embarked troops and then made repeated trips during that day and on the 8th and 9th in spite of heavy enemy fire to affect the landing of equipment ammunition and supplies on force at Taivu Point, Guadalcanal Island, thereby contributing to the successful operations in which the enemy were defeated.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Michigan

MILLER, JACK NEIL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Jack Neil Miller, Boatswain's Mate Second Class, U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry in action while serving as coxswain of a landing craft during the assault on Salerno, Italy, on 9 September 1943. Courageously maneuvering his boat in the face of intense enemy gunfire, Boatswain's Mate Second Class Miller skillfully effected a successful landing and although painfully wounded when hostile machine gun fire shattered the steering wheel in his hands, continued to carry out his important duties thought the unloading operations and then returned to his ship.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Texas

MURPHY, WILLIAM E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to William E. Murphy, Ensign, U.S. Coast Guard, for gallantry and intrepidity aboard the U.S.S. CALLAWAY (APA-35) in her action against the enemy in the Southwest Pacific area on 8 January 1945. Ensign Murphy caused himself to be lowered into wrecked clipping room which it was still burning and the ammunition in it still exploding, to rescue an injured man.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: New York

NIRSCHEL, FRED W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Fred W. Nirschel, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry as member of a reconnaissance patrol transported to a Japanese held island in the Pacific Area during the latter part of December 1943. With no knowledge of enemy strength or the attitude of natives to the Allied Nations and with limited means of escape, Lieutenant Commander Nirschel went ashore in the face of certain danger and within a brief space of time secured information concerning the strength of Japanese forces and their equipment and had determined the most suitable beach for future landing as well as favorable sites for bomber and fighter strips. Discovered by the enemy and in danger of being captured by a hostile party possessing superior arms, he fought gallantly, assisting in ambushing and killing three Japanese, wounding one and putting the remainder to flight before struggling back through heavy surf to the rendezvous with friendly craft.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: New York

ONETO, ANTHONY L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Anthony L. Oneto, Lieutenant (j.g.), U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for gallantry and intrepidity in action as a member of a salvage boat crew attached to the U.S.S. CAVALIER (APA-37) while participating in assault landings against the enemy in Lingayen Gulf, Luzon, Philippine Islands on 9 January 1945.
Home of Record: California

*OWENS, THOMAS ELBERT
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Thomas Elbert Owens (00670081), Seaman First Class, U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a member of gun crew serving on board the U.S.S. CALLAWAY (APA-35) in action against the Japanese in Pacific waters on 8 January 1945. Manning his station aggressively when the vessel was attacked by a Japanese suicide plane Seaman First Class Owens unhesitatingly relinquished all chance of escape as the plane plunged toward the target, and, remaining steadfastly at his gun, continued to direct his fire with unrelenting fury upon the enemy until carried away with his weapon by the terrific impact. With indomitable fighting spirit and unyielding devotion to duty, Seaman First Class Owens gallantly gave his life for country.
Authority: ABMC
Home of Record: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

OXLEY, GENE E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Gene E. Oxley, Seaman First Class, U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for gallantry while on the U.S.S. LCI(L)-85 during the assault on the coast of France on 6 June 1944, and for extraordinary courage in volunteering and twice taking a line ashore, in the face of heavy machine gun and shell fire, in order to assist troops unloading from the ship to the beach through chest deep water.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Indiana

PALMER, WALTER L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Walter L. Palmer, Seaman First Class, U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry in action on 26 January 1944, while attached to the U.S.S. LST 16 during the amphibious invasion of Anzio, Italy. During a full gale with extreme heavy seas, Seaman First Class Palmer volunteered as a member of boat crew that went to the rescue of personnel trapped below decks of the blazing H.M.S. LST 422. His expert seamanship brought the craft through a heavily mined area and despite the fact that the H.M.S. LST 422 was pitching and rolling in a dangerous manner and ammunition was constantly exploding he succeeded in bringing his craft alongside and effecting the rescue of a soldier trapped in lower compartment of the ship without means of escape by removing him though a hole in the side of the ship and bringing him safely to the U.S.S. LST 16.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: New Jersey

PETERSON, CLARENCE H.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Clarence H. Peterson, Captain, U.S. Coast Guard, for conspicuous gallantry in action as Commander of a Task Unit of Landing Ships Tanks during action against enemy Japanese forces at Cape Gloucester, New Britain, on 26 December 1943 and at Saidor, New Guinea, on 2 January 1944. Subjected to a withering hostile air attack during departure from the beach at Cape Gloucester, Captain Peterson fought his command aggressively and inflicted severe losses upon the enemy with a minimum of damage to his own units. A cool and proficient leader despite extremely difficult conditions he skillfully organized and guided succeeding echelons throughout the vital re-supply of these two important strongholds.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Massachusetts

SALMON, ROBERT M.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Robert M. Salmon, Lieutenant, U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for gallantry as commanding officer of a U.S. LCI (L) while landing assault troops in Normandy, France, on 6 June 1944. Lieutenant Salmon pressed the landing of troops despite the mining of his vessel, a serious fire forward and heavy enemy gunfire. He supervised the unloading of troops, directed the fire fighting despite the loss of proper equipment and exhibiting courage of a high degree remained with the ship until it was impossible to control the progress of the fire until it was impossible to control the progress of the fire and it was necessary to abandon ship over the stern. After abandoning he directed a party searching for fire fighting equipment and subsequently fought the fire on another LCI (L) and assisted her commanding officer until she was abandoned.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: New Jersey

SCANLAN, BERNARD EDWARD
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Bernard Edward Scanlan, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Coast Guard, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Boat Group Commander during the amphibious assault at Salerno, Italy, on 9 September 1943. Braving intense fire from enemy shore emplacements, Lieutenant Commander Scanlan marshaled and led the first and succeeding boat waves to the assigned assault beach, maintaining effective control of landings in spite of fierce enemy opposition. His brilliant leadership and tenacious devotion to duty contributed immeasurable to the success of our assault operations in a vital area.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Illinois

*SCHEUERMAN, JOHN C.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to John C. Scheuerman, Seaman First Class, U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving aboard the U.S.S. LCI (L) 319 during the amphibious invasion of Italy, on 9 September 943. Observing an enemy fighter plane diving in for a strafing attack as his vessel approached the assault beached in the Gulf of Salerno, Seaman first Class Scheuerman unhesitatingly manned his battle station at an exposed antiaircraft gun and with cool courage exerted every effort to direct accurate gunfire against the plane. Although mortally wounded before he could deliver effective fire he remained steadfast at his post in the face of imminent death, thereby contributing materially to the protection his ship against further attack.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Ohio

*SEUTTER, DONALD JOHN ECKARD
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Donald John Eckard Seutter (07009324), Ships Cook Second Class, U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a member of gun crew serving on board the U.S.S. CALLAWAY (APA-35) in action against the Japanese in Pacific waters on 8 January 1945. Manning his station aggressively when the vessel was attacked by a Japanese suicide plane Ships Cook Second Class Seutter unhesitatingly relinquished all chance of escape as the plane plunged toward the target, and, remaining steadfastly at his gun, continued to direct his fire with unrelenting fury upon the enemy until carried away with his weapon by the terrific impact. With indomitable fighting spirit and unyielding devotion to duty, Ships Cook Second Class Seutter gallantly gave his life for country.
Authority: ABMC
Home of Record: South Haven, Minnesota

SNYDER, RICHARD T.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Richard T. Snyder, Boatswain's Mate First Class, U.S. Coast Guard, for gallantry in action in the amphibious attack on Biak Island, Schouton Group, Dutch New Guinea, on 27 May 1944. When members of the party landed and were subject to severe hand grenade fire from Japanese troops in two caves in the cliff near the beach, Boatswain's Mate First Class Snyder procured hand grenades, returned to the cliff area and eliminated enemy resistance, killing the four Japanese hidden in the caves. By his initiative and resourceful fighting qualities under fire he defeated enemy resistance and made possible the expeditious landing of vital material without casualty.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Ohio

SPARLING, WILLIAM ALLERTON
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to William Allerton Sparling, Boatswain's Mate Second Class, U.S. Coast Guard, for conspicuous gallantry as Coxswain of Boat No. 2 of the U.S.S. McKEAN (APD-5) during action against enemy Japanese forces during the landing on Tulagi Island on 7 August 1942. Forming part of the initial assault wave, Boatswain's Mate Second Class Sparling landed his embarked troops, and then made three return trips in the face of terrific enemy fire to land equipment, ammunition and supplies. On September 8 he affected a successful landing against a Japanese force at Taivu Point on Guadalcanal Island. His proficient leadership and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Michigan

STRING, JOHN F., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to John F. String, Jr., Lieutenant, U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. PC-545 off Anzio, Italy on 18 March 1944. When an enemy motor torpedo boat was sighted at night, Lieutenant String immediately ordered the attack. With an expert display of seaman ship, he so skillfully maneuvered the ship that the first shots scored hits on the enemy craft before it was able to maneuver into position to effectively use its torpedoes and the resulting fire caused it to disintegrate in an explosion. This successful action against the enemy contributed materially to the protection of shipping in the Anzio area and to the successful maintenance of forces ashore.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Maryland

TARR, DANIEL JAMES
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Daniel James Tarr, Surfman, U.S. Coast Guard, for gallantry in action as a boat coxswain on 7 August 1942, during the landing of Tulagi Island in the first assault wave. Surfman Tarr made repeated trips in spite of heavy enemy fire to effect landing of equipment, troops, ammunition, and supplies. On 8 September he made a landing against a Japanese force at Taivu Point, Guadalcanal, thereby materially contributing to the successful operations in which the enemy were defeated.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Virginia

THOMPSON, EDWARD C., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Edward C. Thompson, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Coast Guard, for conspicuous gallantry as Captain of the U.S.S. PC-545 in action against enemy forces during the assault on the Island of Sicily, on 10 July 1943. Accurately locating the strategic beaches assigned for landing operations, Lieutenant Commander Thompson, although forced to maintain fire silence in order to support a surprise attack, tenaciously held his hazardous anchorage three thousand years offshore and continued to provide vital signals to direct the landing craft, despite constant exposure to hostile searchlights and imminent danger of enemy fire.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Massachusetts

TRUMP, WILLIAM F.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to William F. Trump, Motor Machinist's Mate First Class, U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for gallantry and intrepidity in action in the assault phase of an LCI (L) which landed troops in the face of severe enemy fire and despite a profusion of beach obstacles on the coast of France on 6 June 1944. Having volunteered for the assignment Motor Machinist's Mate First Class Trump waded between the heavily mined beach obstacles and dragged an anchor and anchor-line to shallow water, thereby providing a safety line for troops to follow.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Pennsylvania

UNGER, ARDEN C.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Arden C. Unger, Commander, U.S. Coast Guard, for outstanding services as a Deputy Assault Group Commander in the assault on the coast of France, on 6 June 1944. Commander Unger took his station close to the beach under heavy enemy fire on the day of the assault and remained under fire during the most bitter period of the fighting, when with great coolness he made decisions on the spot, reorganized, grouped and dispatched craft to the beach, and made the weight of his judgment felt in a manner which contributed materially to the success of the operation.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Florida

VYN, AREND, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Arend Vyn, Jr., Lieutenant (j.g.), U.S. Coast Guard (Reserve), for gallantry in action as Commanding Officer of U.S.S. LCI 91 in the assault on the coast of France on June 6 1944. Lieutenant (j.g.) Vyn beached his ship and discharged the Army elements therein in the face of murderous fire and a labyrinth of obstacles and mines. In spite of the fact that his ship was mined and repeatedly struck by artillery fire and small-arms fire, he continued to land the army load in the face of certain loss of his ship. His determination to put the Army ashore was in keeping with the highest traditions of the offensive spirit of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Michigan

WARD, ROBERT G.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Robert G. Ward, Seaman First Class, U.S. Coast Guard, for conspicuous gallantry in action during the landing operations against the enemy on Cotentin Peninsula, France, on 6 June 1944. While acting as coxswain of a landing craft in the first wave, Seaman First Class Ward successfully landed his troop personnel despite enemy opposition. Upon retracting from the beach he observed the stranded crews from two other landing craft whose boats had been destroyed by enemy mortar fire. Ward returned to the beach, took off both crews despite continued shelling, and returned safely with them to his ship."
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
Home of Record: Connecticut