The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Chief Electrician’s Mate Lester Wallace Bayles (NSN: 2230817), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action in the performance of his duties as Chief Electrician’s Mate in charge of the Electrical Department in the U.S.S. SAILFISH (SS-192), during the TENTH War Patrol of that Submarine from 17 November 1943 to 5 January 1944. His judgment, skill and supervision of the main electrical plant in his ship, maintained that department in the highest condition of readiness and reliability, thereby contributing materially to his ship’s success in conducting aggressive torpedo attacks against heavily escorted enemy ships and combatant units, which culminated in the sinking of three enemy ships, including a 22,500 ton aircraft carrier, for a total of 35,000 tons and damaging an additional enemy ship of 7,000 tons. His efficiency and exceptional ability in effecting emergency repairs during extremely severe enemy counterattacks, contributed materially to his ship’s success in conducting skillful evasive tactics and her return to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to all with whom he served, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.