The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Ensign Bernard Fair Harper, Jr., United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against the enemy as Officer-in-Charge of the U.S.S. LCT-1364 off Okinawa on 6 April 1945. Mortally wounded at his station on the conn when his ship received a direct hit from an attacking hostile plane while at anchor and awaiting order to beach, Ensign Harper immediately directed the application of tourniquets and administration of morphine and then remaining steadfast at his post, issued orders to haul in the anchor and proceed to a hospital ship approximately 1,000 yards distant. Suffering severe shock and lapsing into unconsciousness, he brought his ship safe alongside the vessel where he and other casualties were taken on board and to the operating rooms for treatment. Concerned only for the safety of his ship and her crew, he continued to encourage and instruct the newly assigned officer and his men until he succumbed to his wounds. His forceful and determined leadership, inspiring fortitude and self-sacrificing devotion to duty throughout reflect the highest credit upon Ensign Harper and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.