The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Earl Dean Bronson (NSN: 0-197465), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy in the performance of his duties as Diving Officer of the U.S.S. BANG (SS-385), during a war patrol of that Submarine in 1944. His outstanding skill and precise control of depth enabled his Commanding Officer to deliver undetected, a highly successful attack against a heavily escorted enemy convoy which resulted in the sinking of enemy ships totaling 24,000 tons. His high degree of efficiency and coolness during severe enemy countermeasures greatly assisted his ship in conducting successful evasive tactics. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to the officers and men with whom he served and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.