The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Seaman First Class Clarence Buck (NSN: 7234880), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as a member of the crew of a landing craft tank in the assault wave during the invasion of France, 6 June 1944. Seaman First Class Buck volunteered to test the depth of the water between the ramp of his craft and the shore. In the face of heavy enemy fire and in water infested with obstacles and mines he went over the side at the appointed time, performed this essential and extremely hazardous task, and was directly responsible for the successful disembarkation of the troops and equipment aboard his craft. The cool courage and outstanding devotion to duty displayed by Seaman Buck on this occasion were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.