Davis Franklin Light

Boatswain's Mate 1st Class, U. S. Navy

Silver Star

GENERAL ORDERS:
Authority: U.S. Coast Guard Book of Valor and Supplements
CITATION:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Boatswain's Mate First Class Davis Franklin Light (NSN: 3567586), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while attached to U.S.S. SAMUEL CHASE (APA-26) during the amphibious invasion of Sicily on 10 July 1943 and the invasion of Italy on 9 September 1943.
As Coxswain of a landing craft from U.S.S. SAMUEL CHASE, converted for salvage and rescue operations, he participated in the highly effective work accomplished in restoring to service approximately 100 landing craft which had broached and were stranded on the beaches near Gela, Sicily. Exposed to frequent enemy air attacks and artillery fire on the beach areas, he exhibited extreme courage and determination in operating his craft so as to render the maximum possible help to the salvage party. Subsequently to the landings in the Gulf of Salerno, he performed similar services in a courageous and resolute manner under equally hazardous conditions and his untiring efforts materially assisted in saving many craft for further operations against the enemy, which otherwise would have been damaged beyond repair. The exceptional valor, initiative, and outstanding devotion to duty by Coxswain Light were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.