The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Harry Frederick Fischer, Jr. (NSN: 0-85295), United States Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity in action in the performance of his duties as Diving Officer of the U.S.S. THRESHER (SS-200) during the ELEVENTH War Patrol of that Submarine in waters, the control of which is now being contested, from 30 December 1943 to 18 February 1944. His high degree of skill and precise control of depth, assisted his Commanding Officer materially in delivering aggressive and successful torpedo attacks which resulted in the sinking of five enemy ships totaling 26,243 tons and damaging an additional enemy ship of 9,866 tons. His high degree of proficiency and coolness during periods of enemy counterattacks greatly assisted his ship in conducting successful evasive tactics. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to the officers and men in his ship and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.