The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Seaman Second Class Clarence John Aschenbrenner, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving aboard the Light Cruiser U.S.S. MARBLEHEAD (CL-12), when that ship was bombed by Japanese planes during the Battle of the Java Sea on 10 February 1942. Seaman Second Class Aschenbrenner was a member of the cruiser’s Forward Repair Party. When she suffered bomb hits his group swung into action. Seaman Second Class Aschenbrenner proceeded directly to the centers of damage in rapid succession, and through the completeness of knowledge of his rating and of damage control, was able to direct and perform work of inestimable value. Immediately upon his arrival he became the key man at the scene. His splendid physique enabled him to perform tremendous feats of lifting and moving heavy wreckage and to continue at work ceaselessly for a period of about 48 hours. By his ability, leadership, correctness of action, his tireless strength and-keen intelligence, coupled with utter disregard of his own safety, Seaman Second Class Aschenbrenner contributed greatly toward the saving of the ship and the saving of many lives. His gallant actions and selfless devotion to duty, without regard for his own safety, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.