The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Francis Edward Fleck, Jr. (NSN: 0-73551), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. CHAMPLIN (DD-601), during the amphibious invasion of Southern France between 18 and 30 August 1944. By skillfully maneuvering his ship and accurately directing its gunfire, Commander Fleck contributed to the effective support of the advancing ground forces in clearing the enemy from coastal positions on the right flank of the central assault area. Braving strong return fire, he conducted the shore bombardment with competence and vigor, silenced several enemy shore batteries, saturated enemy troop and tank concentrations and harassed the interior supply lines. His able participation in this action materially assisted in the expulsion of the enemy from Southern France and his prompt action and steadfast devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.