The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Charles F. Esmiol, United States Navy, for gallantry in action during World War II. When a torpedo from a Japanese submarine struck his cargo ship, Lieutenant Esmiol, Engineering Officer, despite the danger of a major explosion, assisted in bringing fires under control and maintaining the engineering plant and providing temporary power leads to machinery rendered inoperative by the fire. After a second attack resulted in flooding the engine room, he worked incessantly for three days to prevent the complete destruction of his ship. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.