The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Donald C. Rodeen, United States Navy, for gallantry in action during the occupation of French Morocco, 8 to 11 November 1942. Although subjected to intense anti-aircraft fire, Lieutenant Rodeen fearlessly operated his plane at low altitude and, with skillful accuracy, attacked various hostile ground positions. When hostile fire crippled his plane and inflicted wounds in both legs, he succeeded in bringing his plane to a safe landing in friendly territory without injury to the crew. 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.