The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Jay Wayne Land (NSN: 0-123746/1100), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Gunnery Officer on board the U.S.S. BROWN (DD-546) in the vicinity of Okinawa from 10 April to 18 May 1945. Demonstrating outstanding skill when his ship underwent numerous enemy air attacks while on Radar Picket Duty, Lieutenant Commander Land directed his batteries in driving off eighteen enemy planes and shooting down seven and, in addition, assisted in the destruction of five others without damage to his ship. His gallant fighting spirit was an inspiration to his men during a long and exceptionally hazardous operation, and his unwavering devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.