The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Engineman First Class William D. Haines, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while attached to and serving on board the U.S.S. PARTRIDGE (AMS-31) on 2 February 1951. When that ship struck an enemy mine while engaged in minesweeping operations in the Korean Combat Zone, two men were seriously injured and pinned down in the wreckage of the pilot house. Despite the short time this type of vessel usually stayed afloat after striking a mine he quickly climbed the wreckage, and with the aid of another, successfully rescued two men. Not until the vessel began to sink rapidly did he abandon ship. By his aggressive initiative coupled with complete disregard for his own safety, Engineman First Class Haines contributed greatly to the safety of his shipmates, and his zealous devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.