The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Bernhart Alois Fuetsch (NSN: 0-63263), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in battle as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. MONSSEN (DD-798), during a major engagement with a large Japanese air force between the Philippines and Saipan on 19 June 1944. Having been stationed as a picket in the direct line of enemy approach, his ship was the repeated target for dive and torpedo attacks while bearing the brunt of responsibility for breaking up the approaches. His ship damaged two enemy planes and turned away many others. As a direct result of his exceptional ship-handling, no damage or casualties were received. By mutual support and coordinated effort with the remainder of the Task Group, the enemy attack was effectively disrupted. His outstanding conduct in battle was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.