The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Peter Kirill, United States Navy, for gallantry in action as Gunnery Officer aboard the U.S.S. LCI (L) 70 on 5 November 1943. Lieutenant Kirill enabled his gunners to destroy four Japanese twin-engine bombers. After his landing craft was severely damaged and abandoned by her crew, he returned to the ship and remained aboard for three hours until she was towed safely to port, despite the fact that a live enemy torpedo was lodged below deck and might have destroyed the boat at any moment. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.