The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Ensign Donald S. Brody (NSN: 0-266731), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Executive Officer of an LSM from 20 to 24 October 1944, during the assault on Leyte Island, Philippine Islands. During this period the ship in which he was serving, while engaged in discharging cargo under enemy artillery and mortar bombardment, sustained a direct hit by a high explosive shell, as a result of which several men were killed or wounded, and the Commanding Officer was seriously injured. Ensign Brody promptly assumed command, maneuvered the vessel out of immediate danger, transferred the wounded to a hospital ship, and expeditiously resumed the successful performance of the mission assigned, in the face of continued enemy fire. His coolness and efficiency under conditions of great danger were an inspiration to those serving under him; and his performance of duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.