The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Commander Lucius Henry Chappell (NSN: 0-61377), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SCULPIN (SS-191), on the THIRD, FOURTH, and FIFTH War Patrols of that submarine during the period 26 February 1942 to 18 October 1942, in enemy controlled waters of the South China Sea, Molukka Passage, around New Ireland Island, Bismarck Archipelago, and Bougainville Island, Solomon Islands. Lieutenant Commander Chappell adeptly and daringly maneuvered his ship into firing positions and by torpedo fire sank 3 tankers, 1 transport and 2 storeships totaling 53,500 tons, severely damaged and probably sank a 4,000 ton anti-submarine vessel, and damaged another tanker and storeship totaling 12,000 tons. Despite the great mental and physical strain on the long submerged patrols in enemy infested tropical waters he, at all times during these attacks on the enemy and during the severe depth charge attacks which followed, skillfully and courageously handled his ship and brought her out of the actions without major damage. His actions and conduct in these attacks upon the enemy are a continuation of his illustrious records and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Commander Lucius Henry Chappell (NSN: 0-61377), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SCULPIN (SS-191), on the Second War Patrol of that submarine off an enemy base off Java, on 4 February 1942. Lieutenant Commander Chappell observed and tracked an enemy destroyer which was conducting a search for submarines. At considerable risk and by a skillful approach, he placed his vessel in a most advantageous position with respect to the enemy. After obtaining important information of considerable value, a well-timed attack by torpedo fire was delivered which resulted in the sinking of the destroyer. Lieutenant Commander Chappell’s determined and forthright action on this occasion indicated high qualities of leadership and courage, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.