The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Distinguished Service Medal to Commander George P. Bardsley, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer, U.S.S. SPADEFISH from February 1983 to April 1983. During this period, under Commander Bardsley’s guidance, U.S.S. SPADEFISH conducted a complex and extremely important independent submarine operation. Displaying dynamic leadership, consummate skill, and decisiveness, Commander Bardsley maintained U.S.S. SPADEFISH (SS-411), in a high state of readiness throughout an extended deployment. Through his outstanding performance, professional skill, and sound judgment under potentially hazardous conditions, Commander Bardsley was instrumental in achieving results which were considered the most significant achievement of this type in more than five years. By his distinctive achievements, resourcefulness, and inspiring devotion to duty, Commander Bardsley reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.




