The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander William Harry Johnsen (NSN: 0-70260), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. DAVID W. TAYLOR during action against the enemy Japanese forces at Chichi Jima, Bonin Islands, on 5 January 1945. Participating in operations against strongly defended shore batteries, Commander Johnsen fought his ship gallantly throughout the action, delivering smashing naval bombardments upon formidable shore installations. Penetrating deep into enemy-home waters, he continued to train his guns on vital hostile strongholds until his ship struck a presumed mine, which demolished a part of the keel, bulkhead and decks and started a fire in the magazine. Remaining steadfast at his station until directed to retire, Commander Johnsen, by his resourcefulness and good judgment, quickly expedited judicious, effective damage-control measures and succeeded in bringing his crippled ship into port. A brilliant leader, Commander Johnsen, by his expert seamanship, resolute conduct and cool courage in the face of grave peril, contributed essentially to the ultimate success of our Naval campaign in this strategic theater of war and his unwavering devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.