The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Chief Watertender Aaron James Anderson (NSN: 3931483), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as the Chief Water Tender of a fireroom aboard the aircraft carrier U.S.S. BUNKER HILL (CV-17) on 11 May 1945 in the Western Pacific. When his ship was severely damaged by determined enemy air attack he took charge of his fireroom and although smothering smoke, heat and toxic gases filled his fireroom and incapacitated many of the personnel he maintained his fireroom in operation throughout the crisis providing steam vital to the engines, generators and fire pumps. In addition he directed the administration of artificial respiration and first aid to men who had collapsed. His courage, inspiring leadership, high professional skill and disregard for his own personal safety were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.