The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Oliver J. Schneider (NSN: 0-187588), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action on the night of 3 March 1944. At this time he was Commanding Officer of Motor Torpedo Boat ONE HUNDRED NINETY-FOUR (PT-194). With marked coolness and courage he led his patrol into the fortified Ohilien Pass outside of Alexishafen, New Guinea, and there strafed enemy positions inside the harbor. Receiving return fire at a range of 50 yards, he silenced the shore battery starting a fire in that area and withdrew to continue his patrol. Shortly thereafter he engaged and destroyed two enemy barges. His action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.