The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Joseph Jarlathe Staley (NSN: 0-73457), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. MINGO (SS-261), during the FOURTH War Patrol of that Submarine against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific Ocean Area from 19 July to 30 July 1944. Vigorously attacking a high-speed enemy destroyer on the night of 7 July 1944, Commander Staley skillfully maneuvered his vessel at periscope depth and launched his torpedoes and destroyed the hostile ship. His courage and devotion to duty throughout this hazardous patrol reflect the highest credit upon Commander Staley and the United States Naval Service.