The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Gunner’s Mate Third Class William A. Schilbe, United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a member of the Armed Guard aboard a merchant vessel during attacks by enemy forces during World War II. In a mass enemy attack, Gunner’s Mate Third Class Schilbe aided in the superb defense of the ship which resulted in the shooting down in flames of one bomber and in seriously damaging another. Although physically exhausted and suffering intense eyestrain after many hours at quarters, he, with other members of the crew, kept up a sustained withering anti-aircraft barrage which set one enemy plane afire and sent another crashing ablaze into the sea. In spite of this valiant defense, the ship sank. Gunner’s Mate Third Class Schilbe’s gallant actions and selfless devotion to duty, without regard for his own safety, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.