The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade (MC) John Kenneth Barbieri, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Medical Officer aboard the U.S.S. AARON WARD (DM-34) during and after action with enemy suicide aircraft on 3 May 1945. By his coolness, untiring energy, skill, and devotion to duty, he was responsible for the saving of many lives. His conduct throughout the vicious attacks and long hours of attending the wounded after the battle, prior to their transfer to a hospital ship, was an inspiration to all officers and men on board. His heroic conduct, performed in the face of great danger to himself, was outstanding and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.