The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Leonard Kenny, United States Navy, for gallantry in action during World War II. As Navigator in the U.S.S. McCAWLEY (APA-4), Lieutenant Kenny, having previously secured valuable information on a scouting expedition to Rendova Island, conducted the approach. Following the torpedoing of his ship on 30 June 1943, he went below to the engine room and the flooded compartments and tried to keep the vessel afloat as long as possible. 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.