The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Coxswain Alphonse L. DeMarco, United States Naval Reserve, for gallantry in action when a premature explosion burst the barrel of a 20-mm. gun aboard his ship during the Italian invasion in 1944, and caused serious fires to break out near the ready ammunition. Coxswain DeMarco observed the imminent danger from his station at an adjoining gun, and promptly smothered the flames with a blanket before they could reach the exposed shells. 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.