The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Ensign Fred J. Cannastra, United States Naval Reserve, for gallantry in action as a Naval Gunfire Liaison Officer attached to the 3d Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, during the assault on Normandy, France, 6 to 30 June 1944. Ensign Cannastra took over the duties of gunfire spotter when this officer was killed, in addition to his own. Under heavy fire he conducted naval gunfire support to assist the advancing infantry and materially assisted in the capture of Montebourg. 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.