The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Chief Machinist’s Mate “J” “G” Elliott (NSN: 3559898), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a member of a Repair Party on board the U.S.S. DAVID W. TAYLOR (DD-551), during our bombardment of enemy Japanese shore installations on Chichi Jima, Bonin Islands, on 5 January 1945. When his ship was severely damaged by an enemy mine, Chief Elliott forced his way into the shattered and flooded compartment above and made a desperate effort to free four trapped crewmen from the magazine below, continuing in his gallant efforts until overcome by fumes. Subsequently returning to the shattered compartment which was under approximately five and one half feet of water, he ably directed his men in shoring a bulkhead and hatch. By his courage and initiative, Chief Elliott contributed materially to the safe return of the ship to port, and his devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.