The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Electrician’s Mate Third Class Jack Younts, United States Naval Reserve, for gallantry in action while attached to a mine-sweeper which was engaged in mine-sweeping operations near Point d’Anzio, Italy, on 24 January 1944. Electrician’s Mate Third Class Younts, alone, observed an enemy plane approaching from astern. He maintained continuous machine gun fire on the plane until it came within 500 feet of the ship where it banked and released a bomb. His accurate and intensive fire undoubtedly prevented the plane from scoring a probable hit on the mine-sweeper. 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.