The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Chief Motor Machinist’s Mate Theodore J. Converse, United States Navy, for gallantry in action when his destroyer was damaged by a bomb which landed close aboard during an air attack off Palermo, Sicily, on 26 July 1943. Chief Converse went to the aid of men in the forward engine room, which was flooded and filled with escaping steam. Although he knew the ship was in danger of sinking, he continued his search for an extended period of time in an effort to save the lives of men who might be trapped. 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.