The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Richard Cross Lake (NSN: 0-62689), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. ALBACORE (SS-218), during the first three war patrols in enemy controlled waters from 28 August 1942 to 11 March 1943. Commander Lake courageously and aggressively attacked the enemy at every opportunity with the result that 7,400 tons of enemy shipping, including a mine layer, were sunk and 19,500 tons, including a destroyer were damaged. Though strong enemy air and surface escorts were encountered he never hesitated to press home his attacks. Furthermore, when the enemy attacked with depth charges he skillfully handled his ship so as to avoid severe damage and brought her safely to port. His actions 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 a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Silver Star to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Richard Cross Lake (NSN: 0-62689), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. ALBACORE (SS-218), during the THIRD War Patrol of that Submarine in the Bismarck Sea, New Guinea Area, from 20 January 1943 to 11 March 1943. Pursuing highly aggressive and tenacious tactics the Commanding Officer launched well conducted torpedo attacks which resulted in the sinking of the 1,850 ton enemy destroyer OSHIO and an unidentified vessel of about 750 tons. He coolly and skillfully evaded all enemy countermeasures and brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men, 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 a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Richard Cross Lake (NSN: 0-62689), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. ALBACORE (SS-218), during the SECOND War Patrol of that Submarine in enemy controlled waters from 11 November to 30 December 1942. Commander Lake daringly maneuvered his ship and aggressively attacked an escorted enemy light cruiser with torpedoes, with the result that the enemy war vessel was sunk. As immediate and vigorous counter-attack by the escorting vessel ensued, he, exercising great skill, avoided the enemy attack and brought his ship safely to her base. His actions and conduct were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.