The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander Wreford Goss Chapple (NSN: 0-63394), United States Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity in line with his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. PERMIT (SS-178), during a War Patrol of that Submarine during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific Area in 1942. Despite the strain of prolonged undersea operations in perilous hostile waters, he pressed home his relentless attacks with cool courage and outstanding ability, sinking an important amount of Japanese shipping. He employed skillful evasive tactics against the determined anti-submarine measures of ships and aircraft. He successful completed the dangerous assignment by brining his vessel to safety without having sustained disabling damage to his own ship. His daring aggressiveness and unswerving devotion to duty at great personal risk were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and 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 Wreford Goss Chapple (NSN: 0-63394), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. BREAM (SS-243), during the THIRD War Patrol of that Submarine off the West Coast of Luzon, from 2 October to 22 November 1944. Despite vigorous enemy air and surface anti-submarine measures, Commander Chapple pressed attacks upon two enemy cruisers, damaging them severely. In addition, skillful attacks were made which resulted in the BREAM’s receiving half credit for sinking a large AP and for damaging another. Commander Chapple also displayed exceptional ability as Officer in Tactical Command of a successful coordinated Search and Attack Group consisting of U.S.S. BREAM, U.S.S. BATON, and U.S.S. GUITARRO. In three well-planned coordinated attacks these submarines sank three large enemy cargo ships, a large transport and a heavy cruiser. His service and conduct were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.