The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Chief Boatswain’s Mate Harold F. Whitehead, United States Navy, for gallantry in action as coxswain of a tank lighter in the amphibious assault at Salerno in September 1943. Chief Whitehead unhesitatingly assumed the responsible duties when the boat officer of his craft was seriously wounded. He skillfully piloted the boat to the assigned landing point, effecting successful, expeditious unloading of vital cargo. Later, he volunteered to serve as coxswain of a tank landing craft which had lost many of its crew. 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.