(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Lieutenant Walter T. Skallerup, Jr., United States Navy, was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action as Fighter Director Officer on the Staff of Commander Destroyer Squadron FIFTY-THREE, in action against the Japanese in the vicinity of the Japanese homeland, from 17 March 1945 to 27 April 1945. 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.