The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Chief Gunner’s Mate Loury B. Gonia, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while attached to the U.S.S. DALLAS (DD-199) during the assault on and occupation of French Morocco from 8 November 1942 to 11 November 1942. Chief Gonia displayed exceptional bravery under fire during the capture of Port Lyautey airfield in French Morocco. As a crew member, he assisted in the battery control when a detachment of Army raider troops were disembarked under cover of the ship’s protective fire. 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.