The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant James M. Stewart (NSN: 0-101369), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action on 12 January 1945, while serving as First Lieutenant and Damage Control Officer of the U.S.S. GILLIGAN (DE-508) in the Lingayen Gulf. Lieutenant Steward, by his fearless leadership and conduct, and with complete disregard of his own safety, controlled battle damage due to a plane explosion and enabled his vessel to continue the action, driving off a second plane, and continue carrying on its assigned duties. Lieutenant Stewart’s conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.