The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander [then Lieutenant] James Dunbracco Nickerson (NSN: 0-123700/1100), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Diving Officer of the U.S.S. TROUT (SS-202), during the NINTH and TENTH War Patrols of that Submarine in enemy Japanese-controlled waters from 27 May to 4 October 1943. Expertly controlling depth, Lieutenant Commander Nickerson rendered invaluable assistance to his Commanding Officer in delivering torpedo and gun attacks against heavily escorted enemy shipping to sink ships totaling over 32,000 tons and damage ships totaling over 4,000 tons and in employing effective evasive tactics during severe enemy counterattacks. His skill and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.