The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Electrician’s Mate John D. Rendernick, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry in action while serving on board the Submarine U.S.S. BILLFISH (SS-286), during a combat war patrol in the enemy controlled waters of Makassar Strait on 11 November 1943. When a highly accurate enemy depth charge attack initially caused damage to the submarine’s internal piping and hull fittings, subsequent semi-continuous severe attacks wrought major damage to all systems and vital equipment and put into question the submarine’s survivability. Chief Petty Officer Rendernick immediately sprang into action from his battle station at the electrical control cubicle aft and commenced leading emergency repair efforts to reduce the heavy flooding through the stern tubes and to restore operability to such damaged equipment as possible. The severity of the situation was obvious to the crew, most of whom after eleven hours under constant attack gave up all hope of survival. Chief Petty Officer Rendernick displayed the highest degree of professionalism and leadership as he directed innovative damage control measures aft, including pumping grease into the worst leaking stern tube and utilizing six men and a hydraulic jack to reposition the port main motor, which had been knocked off its foundation by the shock of some extremely close depth charges, which had sheared its hold-down bolts. When the increasing pressure and heat reached the limit of the men’s tolerance, Chief Petty Officer Rendernick had them wrap wet towels around their heads and take turns going into the more livable adjacent compartment for a rest. By his cool and courageous actions, exceptional initiative, and loyal dedication to duty, Chief Petty Officer Rendernick reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.