The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Gunner’s Mate Third Class Thomas Curtis Beaty (NSN: 5515249), United States Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy as a member of the Armed Guard Crew of the S.S. LUTHER MARTIN, in the Mediterranean Area in 1943. When the S.S. LUTHER MARTIN was fiercely attacked by enemy aircraft, Gunner’s Mate Third Class Beaty rushed to an abandoned gun turret and started to tap out a jammed 20-mm. shell. Knocked to the deck as the shell exploded, and in great pain from three shrapnel wounds in his back, he concealed his injuries and continued to man other guns and to encourage his comrades throughout the engagement. Two hours later, when the all clear sounded, Gunner’s Mate Third Class Beaty was forced by intense suffering to admit his serious condition. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.