The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant (ChC) Francis Jean Keenan, United States Navy, for gallantry in action during the invasion of Sicily, on 11 July 1943. Attached to the A.P. Elizabeth C. Stanton , a transport ship, Chaplain Keenan voluntarily left the ship to render assistance to medical parties ashore. Although wounded while digging a grave, despite his wound and with utmost fortitude he continued to complete the grave and conducted the services for the deceased man. Upon returning to his ship he declined medical aid until those more seriously wounded were cared for. 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.