The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Motor Machinist’s Mate Third Class Winfred L. Arterberry (NSN: 8591348), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action in an engagement with the enemy while serving as a member of the crew of the PT-502. On patrol on 12 August 1944, the PT-502 encountered a superior enemy force. While conducting a torpedo attack on the enemy vessels, strong opposing fire was centered on the boat. From his battle station as gun captain, Motor Machinist’s Mate Third Class Arterberry was thrown to the deck by the force of the explosion and suffered a severe wound in the back. With utter disregard for his personal safety and pain of the injury, Motor Machinist’s Mate Third Class Arterberry returned to his battle station and ordered his gun back into action. Again, Motor Machinist’s Mate Third Class Arterberry was wounded by enemy fire, this time in the shoulder. Despite his immobility occasioned by these wounds but imbued with courage and devotion to duty, Motor Machinist’s Mate Third Class Arterberry remained at his station directing the operations of the gun until the order was given to cease firing. The gallantry and devotion to duty displayed by Motor Machinist’s Mate Third Class Arterberry on this occasion were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.