The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Motor Machinist First Class Walter J. Niemiec, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving on board the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. ASTORIA (CA-34), during action against enemy Japanese naval forces off Savo Island on 9 August 1942. Motor Machinist First Class Niemiec rescued fellow shipmates who were trapped in the engine room compartment by wreckage, fire and dense smoke. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.