The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander Melvin E. Bustard, Jr. (NSN: 0-127951), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Naval light forces participating in the engagement on 17 July 1951, and approximately fifty shore batteries subjecting the limited operation area of the friendly forces to intense crossfire from three directions. His zealous engaging the enemy in fierce combat coupled with his superb display of seamanship and professional ability, was instrumental in silencing several shore batteries whose fire was intense and accurate over a four and one half hour period. His utter disregard for his own personal safety in maneuvering his ships into position for close fire support with the units under heavy fire, coupled with his forceful judgment in subjecting his ships to possible injury in order that our forces could remain in Wonsan, was an inspiration to those who served under him. His leadership, coolness in the face of tremendous odds and zealous devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.