The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Charles E. Roeschke, United States Navy, for gallantry in action as Commanding Officer of a Tank Landing Ship (LST) during operations at Vella Lavella during World War II. Lieutenant Roeschke destroyed three enemy planes attacking his ship. Although she received three bomb hits and many of his men were lost, he continued the fight with grim determination. Finally he directed the orderly abandonment of his stricken ship, laboring tirelessly to salvage her. 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.