The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Seaman First Class Frederick C. Polinske, United States Navy, for gallantry in action while serving aboard the U.S.S. VINCENNES (CA-44), in action off Savo Island, 9 August 1942. While his ship was being subjected to bombardment by hostile torpedoes and shellfire, as a member of the forward repair party Seaman First Class Polinske fought to extinguish raging fires in the vicinity of the sick bay. Although wounded he carried on in the intense heat and suffocating fumes until compelled to leave the burning compartment and abandon 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.