The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Commander Ryland D. Tisdale (NSN: 0-8990), United States Navy, for distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. PALOS, in handling a difficult situation in Changsha, Hunan, China between 16 July and 31 July 1930, when that city was attacked and looted by a well-organized Communist band. Through the excellent leadership, good judgment and skill of Lieutenant Commander Tisdale, all Americans and most of the foreigners were successfully evacuated and the loss of American and other foreign property was limited by his timely action.
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Awards Received
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Silver Star
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Silver Star
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Commander (Retired) Ryland D. Tisdale (NSN: 0-8990), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action in the Philippine Islands during World War II. Commander Tisdale was offered passage on the last plane to leave Corregidor when it was apparent that surrender was inevitable. Commander Tisdale refused and offered his place in the plane to Mr. Kuder who also refused. Commander Tisdale was quoted as saying that he preferred to remain and see the thing through. Mr. Kuder stated that on Thursday, 30 April 1942, the fighting in the area around Damsalan was very heavy, and that Commander Tisdale banded together a small group of officers and enlisted men, including some civilians, and threw in with Lieutenant Colonel Vesy of the Philippine Army to make a last stand against the Japanese. 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.