The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Sidney Jack Lawrence (NSN: 0-70013), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of a Patrol Plane Squadron during action against enemy Japanese forces at Jaluit Atoll, on 12 January 1944. When his plane was shot down by hostile anti-aircraft fire after a daring raid on the enemy-held base, Commander Lawrence expertly landed his plane at sea near the Japanese Atoll. By his efficient handling of successive emergency situations, capture was avoided, a storm was weathered and all personnel survived. His initiative and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Commander Lawrence and the United States Naval Service.