The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant [then Lieutenant, Junior Grade] Lawrence Leopold Lionel Heideman, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity In action in action as Commanding Officer, Naval Combat Demolition Unit Section ONE, during the initial assault on the Coast of France, 6 June 1944. Assigned the mission of clearing eight fifty-yard gaps through enemy placed obstacles, Lieutenant Heideman skillfully directed the work of his units and despite intense enemy artillery and rifle fire which destroyed or wounded many of his men, succeeded in completing this task which permitted the passage of landing craft to the beach. When tidal conditions prevented work on the demolition of beach obstacles, he assisted the Beachmaster in the discharge of his duties. His professional skill, leadership, and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.