The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander Henry Dixon Sturr (NSN: 0-72256), United States Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. BECUNA (SS-319) during the FIRST War Patrol of that Submarine in the period 23 August to 20 October 1944. Operating in the Philippine-China Sea area, he skillfully maneuvered his submarine into attack position on three Japanese convoys. In a calm, determined manner, he attacked these ships, sinking two enemy tankers and damaging one tanker, one transport, and one cargo ship. His performance throughout was highly commendable, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.