The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Gunner’s Mate First Class Frederick W. Bellesheim (NSN: 8158377), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action on 18 October 1944 while serving as gunner with a reconnaissance boat crew of Underwater Demolition Team FOUR (UDT-4), during the amphibious assault and capture of Leyte, Philippine Islands. Despite heavy artillery, mortar, and machine gun fire which repeatedly hit and ultimately sank his boat, he ably assisted in completing operations which prepared the way for combat troops and was instrumental in saving the lives of wounded comrades. During an action constantly fraught with personal danger,, he displayed extreme devotion to duty and determination to succeed in a hazardous mission. His courage and conduct throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.