The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Bryan Severance Pickett (NSN: 0-165391), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Diving Officer of the U.S.S. SEA DEVIL (SS-400), during the SECOND War Patrol of that Submarine in enemy Japanese-controlled waters, from 19 November 1944 to 11 January 1945. Carefully and precisely controlling the depth, Lieutenant Pickett rendered invaluable assistance to his Commanding Officer in conducting attacks to sink two hostile vessels totaling over 17,000 tons and damage another of approximately 30,000 tons, despite severe enemy countermeasures. His skill and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.