The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Thomas W. Burns (NSN: 0-96958), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while attached to the Staff of Commander Minecraft, United States Pacific Fleet, and serving on board the Flagship of the Task Group Commander. When the Flagship was struck by an enemy suicide bomber on 1 May 1945, Lieutenant Burns, at great personal danger, heroically and with complete disregard of his own safety, took charge of the ship’s fire hose and proceeded to confine, and eventually to extinguish, fire caused by an incendiary bomb carried by the suicide plane. His timely and heroic action contributed greatly to the saving of the Flagship and many lives. His gallantry and intrepidity were conspicuous and far beyond the call of duty. His coolness and bravery in the face of internal heat, exploding ammunition, and gasoline, during continuing attacks by enemy aircraft in the anchorage, demonstrated great heroism and courage and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.