The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain [then Commander] Willis Everett Cleaves (NSN: 0-58635), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of a United States Seaplane Tender from August 1942 to June 9143. When his ship was torpedoed by an enemy submarine, his courageous conduct and calm demeanor inspired his officers and men who with splendid discipline, drove off the submarine with gunfire and got the ship underway while taking measures to save the vessel from sinking or destruction by fire. When all motive power was lost, and having been compelled to ship his anchors, he beached his vessel without additional damage or loss of life. His conduct in directing salvage operations, and later during the assault and recapture of Attu Island, contributed greatly to the success of the operation, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.