The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander Ralph Huntington Lockwood (NSN: 0-81314), United States Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity in action as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. GUAVINA (SS-362), during the FIFTH War Patrol of that Submarine in enemy-controlled waters, from 23 January 1945 to 5 March 1945. Lieutenant Commander Lockwood’s determination to destroy the enemy at every point was commendable. The skill with which he carried out two successful submerged attacks which resulted in the sinking of two valuable enemy tankers totaling 20,000 tons, and in the damaging of a cargo vessel of 4,000 tons, was characteristic of his find record. He displayed keen judgment in evading an alert escort by bottoming in 140 feet of water close to a ship which had been previously sunk. Despite a severe counterattack, during which 98 depth charges and bombs were dropped, he returned his ship to port safely. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to the officers and men of his ship, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.


