The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Ship’s Cook First Class Gustav Pesek, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Crewman of the U.S.S. SEA DEVIL (SS-400), during the Second War Patrol of that vessel in enemy Japanese-controlled waters, from 19 November 1944 to 11 January 1945. Skilled in the performance of duty, Ship’s Cook First Class Pesek rendered invaluable assistance to his commanding officer in conducting attacks to sink two hostile vessels totaling over 17,000 tons and damaged another of approximately 30,000 tones, despite severe enemy countermeasures. His devotion to his duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.