The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Douglas Haig Pugh, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as First Lieutenant aboard the U.S.S. GROWLER (SS-215), on War Patrol in enemy Japanese controlled waters. During months of maneuvering through an area continuously menaced by enemy air and surface craft, Lieutenant Pugh contributed materially to the success of two attacks on Japanese vessels, in which one freighter of 5,400 tons was sunk and one of 6,500 tons damaged. On the early morning of 7 February 1943, after the GROWLER had rammed and probably sunk an enemy gunboat, but as a result had suffered severe damage, Lieutenant Pugh fought fires and reduced leaks, thereby assisting in maintaining vital machinery in operation as long as possible. In addition, he worked unceasingly to effect emergency repairs, enabling the gallant ship to reach port safely. His skill, courage and heroic devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.