The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Andrew Harry Brynestad (NSN: 0-337541), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while participating as pilot of a carrier-based fighter plane in an engagement with the enemy in the vicinity of Nansei Shoto on 11 May 1945. While on combat air patrol he intercepted an enemy aircraft which was attempting to launch an attack on one of our destroyers. The destroyer immediately threw up a heavy curtain of protective anti-aircraft fire. With complete disregard for his own safety, he flew through this flak to destroy the enemy aircraft before the attack could be completed. His courage and devotion to duty were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.