The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Chief Radioman Earle J. Blain (NSN: 2124827), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity against the enemy. During four consecutive war patrols of the U.S.S. GUARDFISH (SS-217) in 1942 and 1943, his performance of duty as Senior Radioman and as sound and radar operator was outstanding. As radar repairman he spent many hours of arduous labor, maintaining radar equipment in operable condition. As sound operator he rendered invaluable assistance to his Commanding Officer in tracking enemy vessels, both offensively and defensively. His actions and conduct were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.