The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Motor Machinist’s Mate Second Class Paul M. DeLaney, United States Navy, for gallantry in action in Kula Gulf, 4 to 5 July 1943. Aboard a destroyer engaged in rescue work and suffering from a wounded arm, Motor Machinist’s Mate Second Class DeLaney assisted in extinguishing a blaze on his ship and then, in the face of enemy fire, aided in rescuing survivors from the water. Following first aid treatment, he returned to save more survivors. 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.