The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Chief Motor Machinist’s Mate James S. Heist, United States Navy, for gallantry in action during war patrols during World War II. While serving aboard a United States Submarine during three war patrols, Chief Motor Machinist’s Mate Heist, through expert performance of his duties assisted materially in the sinking of an important amount of Japanese shipping. 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.