The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Aviation Machinist’s Mate Second Class William Sewell Barnes (NSN: 3820805), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty while serving with the 2d Company, Corregidor Bluejackets Battalion in the Philippine Islands on or about 9 March 1942. On his way with Miller to take cover in accordance with commands after the enemy began shelling, Aviation Machinist’s Mate Second Class Barnes heard cries for help. With Miller, he located Truax, collapsed and semi-conscious. While Miller went to Queen’s Tunnel to replace a stretcher which was badly torn, Barnes and Ensign Mullins tried to carry Truax on the torn stretcher. After Truax was taken to the dispensary, Barnes and Miller, in complete disregard for their own safety, and without cover or protection in the midst of continuous enemy shelling, kept up a search for others who might have been lying wounded in the shelled area. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.