The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Ensign Arthur D. Maddalena, Jr., United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the Armed Guard, attached to a merchant vessel, in 1942. During hazardous engagements with enemy dive bombers, torpedo planes and submarines, Ensign Maddalena’s ship is credited with holding convoy damage to a minimum by driving off numerous and almost continuous attacks with prompt and efficient barrage. By maintaining constant vigilance and conducting himself with extraordinary courage in the face of great danger, Ensign Maddalena contributed materially to the successful accomplishment of a vastly important mission. His gallantry in action, at the risk of his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.