The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Stuart William Reed, United States Navy, for gallantry in action as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. LCI (L) 416, during the invasion of Normandy, France, on 6 June 1944, and subsequently as a Staff Engineering and Operations Officer in directing the transportation of troops from the United Kingdom to France. Lieutenant Reed was charged with the execution of plans for sailing to the Baie du la Seine, through difficult swept channel, and discharging troops on the beaches. By unusual aggressiveness and ability to meet successfully the problems of unfamiliar circumstances, he was able to beach and proceed with the unloading of troops. While beached, the ship was hit by gunfire, and an underwater explosion rendered it helpless. Lieutenant Reed displayed exceptional heroism and courage in his calm and efficient direction of abandoning of the ship. After all able hands had reached the beach, he remained behind to assist in the towing of a wounded crew member to safety. As the ship was soon brought under increasingly intense gunfire, the action of Lieutenant Reed undoubtedly saved the man’s life. Only two casualties were sustained, the low number being due almost entirely to Lieutenant Reed’s control of the situation. During the following months, as one of the officers in charge of the outbound shuttle control of LCI (L)’s en route to France, he contributed much in supplying craft on a smooth and orderly basis by constant application to duty and the exercise of ingenuity and judgment. The professional skill and devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Reed reflect great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.