(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Fireman First Class Virgil W. Whittaker, United States Navy, was awarded the Silver Star for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against the enemy as a member of a working party assigned to a Landing Ship Tank (LST) during unloading operations at Bougainville, on 23 November 1943. 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.