For heroism beyond the line of duty.

The ship in which he served was in mid-Pacific when struck by an enemy torpedo. The explosion blew through the after decks; the engines and dynamos were completely wrecked; and it was immediately apparent that the ship would remain afloat only a few minutes. Orders were given to prepare to abandon ship, and instructions sent to the Radio Operator to send an S.O.S. The officer who delivered the message found Gianella already engaged in rigging an emergency set. Lifeboats were lowered away, and the Master then sent orders to Gianella to abandon ship. But the Radio Operator had not been able to get his message through. Realizing that upon him rested all hope for the rescue of his shipmates, the pull of duty and tradition was too strong to overcome. Gianella refused to leave his post and chose to face certain death in his stark devotion to duty.

His self-sacrificing courage and fidelity to trust are in keeping with the finest traditions of the United States Merchant Marine.

For the President
Admiral Emory Scott Land