The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Harold H. Ziegler, United States Navy, for gallantry in action as Officer-in-Charge of the U.S.S. LCT-221 during the assault on the west coast of Italy in 1944. Lieutenant Ziegler landed his ship on the heavily defended beach, discharged his cargo and withdrew despite gunfire and bombing attacks. During a subsequent mission he directed the discharge of cargo by his own crew under extremely hazardous conditions. 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.