The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Seaman First Class Leonard L. Barnhill (NSN: 8903302), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a member of a Special Reconnaissance Party from 11 July 1944 to 3 September 1944. Although aware that the detachment was entrusted with a mission requiring a voyage deep into enemy patrolled waters and landings upon enemy held islands, and that the means of escape in the event of discovery by the enemy were practically non-existent, he volunteered for the undertaking. Without disclosing his presence to the enemy, he made landings upon two islands, and obtained information regarding the beaches and the waters adjacent thereto, that was essential to the formulation of plans for our operations against the enemy. His utter disregard of personal safety, and his fearless performance of duty throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.