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 Lieutenant Commander Herbert Irving Mandel (NSN: 0-81384), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action in the performance of his duties as Assistant Approach Officer of the U.S.S. CROAKER (SS-246), during the FIRST War Patrol of that Submarine from 19 July 1944 to 31 August 1944. Displaying excellent judgment and thorough knowledge, Lieutenant Commander Mandel contributed directly to the success of his vessel in launching torpedo attacks against heavily escorted enemy shipping and combatant units which resulted in the sinking of a 5,100-ton cruiser and three other hostile ships totaling 12,500 tons. Skillfully discharging his assigned duties, he rendered invaluable assistance to his Commanding Officer in evading enemy countermeasures. His professional ability, courage and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Commander Mandel and the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Herbert Irving Mandel (NSN: 0-81384), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Torpedo and Gunnery Officer of the U.S.S. FINBACK (SS-230) during three extensive War Patrols of that Submarine in an enemy Japanese controlled area. Despite the strain of prolonged undersea operations in perilous hostile waters, Lieutenant Mandel was courageous and calmly efficient in the performance of his essential duties while his ship relentlessly attacked enemy vessels and employed skillful evasive tactics to counteract the determined anti-submarine measures of airplanes and surface craft. By his valiant and inspiring conduct maintained without regard for his own safety, he assisted materially in the destruction of an important amount of Japanese shipping and contributed to the successful completion of vital missions. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.