The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Thomas J. Morissey, United States Naval Reserve, for gallantry in action while in command of an LCI rocket ship during amphibious assaults at Humboldt Bay, Wakde Island and Biak Island during World War II. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Morissey courageously strafed enemy shore positions at close range with automatic weapons. He minimized casualties and material damage to our forces at Wakde by interposing his ship between enemy gun positions and the leading waves of the landing force while under heavy gunfire. 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.