The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander [then Lieutenant] Lanceferd B. Pruitt, Jr., United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Commanding Officer of an LCT Flotilla on the French coast during the invasion of Normandy, France, on 6 June 1944. The craft under his command landed tanks and artillery in the initial waves when the fighting was sharpest on D-Day, then unloaded transports and cargo vessels. The craft were not only subject to enemy fire, but were buffeted by a heavy sea. During most of the period he took station close to the beach where his display of coolness, initiative and sound judgment under circumstances of great personal hazard contributed largely to the early organization of a difficult situation. 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.