The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Albert Maynard, United States Navy, for gallant and intrepid conduct as Officer in Charge of the United States Navy Armed Guard of a U.S. merchant vessel during attacks on that vessel by enemy planes. By maintaining alert guard and by the discreet disposal of vigilant watches during a long and hazardous voyage the armed guard under the rigid fire discipline and efficient leadership of Lieutenant Maynard, repulsed numerous enemy aerial attacks by intense anti-aircraft fire. In two attacks, fire of the crew was held to the point when all guns opened a barrage simultaneously, the starboard engines and wings of the planes burst into flames and they crashed into the sea. As a result of the skill and outstanding devotion to duty of his crew, a total of four planes were destroyed, which reflects great credit upon Lieutenant Maynard, the Armed Guard under his command and the United States Naval Service