The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Third Gold Star in lieu of a Fourth Award of the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Commander Slade Deville Cutter, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SEAHORSE (SS-304), on the FIFTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 3 July 1944 to 19 July 1944, in enemy Japanese-controlled waters. Penetrating heavy and unusually alert escort screens, Commander Cutter pressed home well planned and executed torpedo attacks to sink six enemy ships totaling 37,000 tons and damaged an additional ship of 4,000 tons. Undaunted by severe enemy anti-submarine measures, he directed his vessel and succeeded in bringing her safe to port. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.