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 Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Richard Harwood Bowers (NSN: 81236), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Assistant Approach Officer of the U.S.S. ATULE (SS-403), during the FIRST War Patrol of that Submarine in enemy Japanese-controlled waters, from 9 October to 11 December 1944. By his skill in coordinating the fire control party and his superior navigating, Commander Bowers rendered invaluable assistance to his commanding officer in conducting successful torpedo attacks to sink over 25,000 tons of enemy shipping despite severe hostile countermeasures. His devotion to duty throughout was 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 Silver Star to Lieutenant Richard Harwood Bowers (NSN: 81236), United States Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity in action as Diving Officer of the U.S.S. GUARDFISH (SS-217), during the first Two War Patrols of that Submarine from 6 August to 28 November 1942, in enemy controlled waters. Lieutenant Bowers rendered invaluable service as Diving Officer when his excellent control of the submarine during numerous attacks made possible undetected approaches to within close firing range of enemy vessels which resulted in sinking 66,450 tons and severely damaging 14,200 tons of enemy shipping. He showed total disregard for personal safety by coolly and expertly controlling the vessel’s depth control during several depth charge attacks where excellent judgment and meticulous attention to duty were required to avoid the loss of depth control. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.