The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Ensign James P. Diforio, United States Naval Reserve, for gallantry in action as Amphibious Officer during the assault on Salerno in September 1943. Ensign Diforio piloted a boat through mined waters to its assigned position, guided assault waved to a heavily defended beach and maintained his position for three hours while his boat was under sustained 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.