The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Quartermaster Second Class Francis C. Berger (NSN: 4051984), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a member of the crew of U.S.S. C-9477 assigned to Aircraft Rescue duty in the Rendova-Munda area. Between 30 June 1943 and 27 July 1943, both dates inclusive, U.S.S. C-9477, of which Quartermaster Second Class Berger was a member of the crew, rescued fourteen airmen and aided in the return to duty of two more, many of these rescues being effected under enemy shell fire. On 26 July 1943, rescue of a man sighted on an island seemed impossible due to shell fire from batteries which forced withdrawal of U.S.S. C-9477. Fully aware of the hazards involved, and with complete disregard of his personal safety, he and another member of the crew volunteered to row the boat’s dinghy to the island to effect the rescue. The rescue was made while U.S.S. C-9477 maneuvered to draw the fire of the shore batteries bearing on the island. His great personal valor and heroic conduct were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.