The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Seaman First Class Leonard Kenneth Branch (NSN: 8337735), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving in the U.S.S. FRANKLIN (CV-13), on 30 October 1944, during action with the enemy. With the ship ablaze as a result of enemy aerial attacks, he assisted in jettisoning hot ready ammunition and in the evacuation of wounded from burning areas. His utter disregard of personal safety were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.