The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Francis Joseph Firth, United States Navy, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving as Executive Officer on board the Oiler U.S.S. NEOSHO (AO-23), during an attack on that vessel by enemy aerial forces during the Battle of the Coral Sea on 7 May 1942. When a Japanese plane made a suicidal dive into Gun No. 4 enclosure, this officer was knocked down and rendered unconscious by the concussion of the explosion which occurred, which was immediately followed by an intense fire. Although badly burned about the face, arms, and hands, and suffering excruciating pain, this officer’s first thought upon regaining consciousness, when he found the after end of the ship afire, steam escaping in a dense cloud on the stack deck, and the ship listing badly, was the safety of the personnel in his vicinity. He dispatched a messenger to the bridge to ascertain the Commanding Officer’s wishes with regard to abandoning ship, and did everything within his power to disseminate the Commanding Officer’s orders to the men in his vicinity. When his services were no longer required in the after part of the ship he made his way forward and sometime later, on first meeting with the Commanding Officer, reported for further duty and asked what assistance he could render. He did this despite the fact that he was critically burned about the face, hands, and left arm.
At all times on 7 May 1942, and in subsequent days, he was an heroic example of unselfishness, insisting upon treatment of all other injured personnel first. Despite his burned condition, he continued to offer his services in the trying days subsequent to 7 May 1942. His conduct was considered extraordinarily courageous and outstanding, and in keeping with the highest ideals and traditions of the naval service. He is recommended for the highest commendation possible.