The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Edward Redmond Bergin, Jr. (NSN: 0-165485), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Bergin Commanded Motor Torpedo Boats ONE HUNDRED TWENTY (PT-120) and ONE HUNDRED TWENTY-ONE (PT-121), during the period from December 1942 to October 1943, in which he took part in over fifty offensive patrols against Japanese barge traffic along the north coast of New Guinea. On 24 December 1942, his vessel and Motor Torpedo Boat ONE HUNDRED FOURTEEN (PT-114) engaged and sank two Japanese barges. On 15 February 1943, his vessel and Motor Torpedo Boat ONE HUNDRED TWENTY (PT-120), engaged six Japanese barges, definitely sinking three, and inflicting damage and loss of life on the remainder. On 9 July 1943, his vessel and Motor Torpedo Boat ONE HUNDRED FORTY-NINE (PT-149) engaged and sank four Japanese barges, pressing home the attack against heavy counterfire. Throughout he displayed exemplary leadership and excellent seamanship in the execution of fearless and aggressive attacks against the enemy. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.