The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Ensign Frederick S. Fink, United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of an Armed Guard crew aboard a United States merchant ship, during attacks on the vessel by enemy forces in alien waters during World War II. Ensign Fink’s crew maintained timely and effective fire against persistent raids upon the convoy by German aircraft, surface units, and submarines, and shot down one plane and aided greatly in the disruption of enemy attacks. His gallant leadership and selfless devotion to duty, without regard for his own safety, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.