The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Motor Machinist’s Mate Second Class Robert A. Brodeur (NSN: 2048523), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while attached to the U.S.S. SAVANNAH (CL-42), during the amphibious invasion of Italy. When an enemy bomb struck U.S.S. SAVANNAH on 11 September 1943, in the Gulf of Salerno, a serious fire was started in one of the turrets. There being no lights, communications or ventilation, Motor Machinist’s Mate Second Class Brodeur with great bravery and despite the danger of imminent magazine explosion proceeded to the smoke and gas filled shell deck of an adjacent turret, and assisted in the rescue of personnel. He then carried out damage control measures which materially contributed to prevention of further damage. The exceptional courage, prompt and decisive action, and outstanding devotion to duty displayed by Motor Machinist’s Mate Second Class Brodeur were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.