The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Donald E. Craggs, United States Navy, for gallantry in action as Assistant Engineer Officer of the U.S.S. MAYRANT (DD-402) when it was damaged by a bomb which landed close aboard off Palermo, Sicily, on 26 July 1943. Lieutenant Craggs promptly entered the flooded forward fire room, from which live steam was pouring, and carried a seriously wounded comrade to safety. He then organized and directed the repair of pumps and their operation until the flooding of the compartment was under control. 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.