The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander Thomas Hodgskin DuBois (NSN: 0-73560), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving on board the U.S.S. SAVANNAH (CL-42), during the invasion of Italy. On 11 September 1943, during an enemy air attack, a large bomb pierced the top of a turret, exploded deep within the ship and caused the penetration of the lower hull, flooding many of the forward compartments and critically affecting the trim of the ship. Lieutenant Commander DuBois assumed charge of damage control activities and courageously directed the fighting of fires which immediately broke out in the wake of the explosion. He also exercised exceptional skill and sound judgment in counter-flooding to correct list and improve the stability of the ship in its damaged condition. His untiring efforts at great risk to himself from fire, toxic gasses, and a possible magazine explosion contributed materially to saving the ship. The outstanding courage, prompt and decisive action, and outstanding devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Commander DuBois were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.