The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Carpenter’s Mate First Class Jerome F. Duggan (NSN: 2126927), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy as a member of a salvage boat crew during the amphibious invasion of Italy in the Gulf of Salerno on 10 September 1943. Working tirelessly and without outstanding courage in the face of continuous enemy fire, Carpenter’s Mate First Class Duggan rendered valuable assistance in important salvage operations which permitted many damaged and stranded landing craft to be returned to active service. In spite of the extremely perilous conditions, he continued this hazardous task until the boat on which he was embarked was sunk by enemy fire. Carpenter’s Mate First Class Duggan’s utter disregard for his own personal safety and his heroic devotion to the accomplishment of a vital mission were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.