The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade William S. Rent, United States Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity in action as Junior Officer of the Deck of the U.S.S. COLE (DD-155), during the assault on and occupation of French Morocco, from 8 November 1942 to 11 November 1942. On the morning of 8 November, the U.S.S. COLE entered the harbor of Safi, in darkness, in order to land Army assault troops at the dock. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Rent skillfully performed his duties under enemy 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.