The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Bert W. Bellamy (NSN: 0-113482), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action. On 12 September 1943, the Tank Landing U.S.S. LST-465, in which he was serving as Supply Officer, was attacked by Japanese bombers and hit. His ship suffered severe damage, many of the crew were wounded and several fires broke out below decks in compartments containing ammunition as well as topside in the immediate vicinity of the gasoline stowage. Lieutenant Bellamy was wounded by shrapnel and dazed. In disregard of his own condition and safety, he made his way aft to the gasoline stowage where one drum was already afire and attempted to trip the quick releasing gear that held the gasoline drums on board. His conduct and action were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.