The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant (ChC) Grimes Weldon Gatlin, United States Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Chaplain aboard the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. FRANKLIN (CV-13), which was striking the Japanese home islands in the vicinity of Kobe, Japan, on 19 March 1945. Immediately after his ship was hit in an enemy air attack a series of violent explosions from ready bombs, rockets, and ammunition ensued. With great courage and without regard for personal safety he made his way to an emergency dressing station on the forecastle deck, where, in the face of continuing explosions and further enemy air attack he devoted himself to aiding the wounded and to reassuring, calming, and encouraging them. During the following days, even while under further air attack, he continued to assist in recovering and identifying the remains of the dead and according them proper burial. His courageous conduct was an inspiration to all officers and men and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States naval service. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Lieutenant Gatlin, 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.