The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Motor Machinist’s Mate First Class Harold Bratt (NSN: 3051453), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in the line of his profession during the engagement of the U.S.S. NEOSHO (AO-23) with Japanese aircraft on 7 May 1942. When a bomb exploded in the fireroom, tearing open the main and auxiliary steam line, boiler casings and boiler tubes, Motor Machinist’s Mate First Class Bratt, who was on duty in the compartment just below, quickly made a correct assumption of existing conditions. By his leadership, quick thinking and action under most difficult circumstances, he was able to save the lives of two men under his charge. His conduct on this occasion was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.