The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Seaman First Class Paul M. Barnette (NSN: 6594835), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as gunner on a twenty millimeter gun aboard the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-10), during an air attack on his carrier on 18 March 1945. At a time when maximum fire power was essential for the protection of his ship, he continued to direct a withering fire into an attacking plane, after being seriously wounded by a ricocheting bomb, until the plane crashed into the sea. His courage and disregard for his personal safety were an inspiration to the men about him and were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.