The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Joseph Anthony Bresnan, United States Coast Guard, for gallantry in action as Convoy Commander and Deputy Assault Group Commander during the assault on France 6 June 1944. As Deputy Assault Commander on Green Beach during the Normandy invasion, Commander Bresnan made daily crossings through a heavily mined and hazardous area. On 8 June, while under enemy artillery fire, Commander Bresnan initiated and directed the beaching of LST-499 after the latter had been mined and abandoned. Also while under enemy artillery fire, Commander Bresnan on 9 June manifested great resourcefulness and courage in locating and beaching overdue dumb barges carrying ammunition urgently needed by the Army. The eminently satisfactory results of the landing of troops from LCI(L) which was done without casualty was directly attributable to the unusual decision and initiative exercised by Commander Bresnan. The exceptional ability, courageous leadership and outstanding devotion to duty displayed by Commander Bresnan reflect great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.