The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Junior Grade George E. Haines (NSN: 0-168684), United States Naval Reserve, for gallantry in action as Gunner Officer of the U.S.S. LANSDALE (DD-426) when it was attacked by enemy aircraft off the coast of Algeria on 20 April 1944. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Haines directed accurate, vigorous fire. After the LANSDALE was hit and all power to the main battery was lost, he coordinated the action of the guns and continued firing, destroying three planes. After abandoning ship, he assisted men struggling in the water and probably assisted in saving several lives. 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.