The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander Clyde Benjamin Stevens, Jr. (NSN: 0-63204), United States Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity in action in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. PLAICE (SS-390) during the SECOND War Patrol of that Submarine from 17 August 1944 to 12 October 1944. Despite strong enemy escorts, which included air support, he skillfully penetrated escort screens and through these daring maneuvers delivered smashing torpedo attacks against enemy shipping and combatant units. As a result of these well planned and brilliantly executed attacks, he sank a 10,000 ton enemy transport and its 600-ton CHIDORI Class escort, and damaged a FUSO Class Battleship of 29,300 tons and a cruiser of 7,100 tons. His skillful evasive tactics during strong enemy counter attacks enabled him to escape and bring his ship back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Commander Clyde Benjamin Stevens, Jr. (NSN: 0-63204), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. PLACE (SS-390), during the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine in enemy Japanese controlled waters in the Pacific War Area, from 9 November to 20 December 1944. A bold tactician, Commander Stevens pursued an enemy force to launch brilliantly executed torpedo attacks which severely damaged two hostile destroyers totaling over 4,000 tons. By his sound judgment and skill, he successfully evaded severe enemy countermeasures. His unfaltering devotion to duty throughout reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.