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 Herman Joseph Kossler (NSN: 0-73525), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. CAVALLA (SS-244), during the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine against enemy Japanese forces in the Java and South China Seas, from 14 November 1944 to 13 January 1945. On the night of 25 November, Commander Kossler launched a well-planned night surface attack in shallow water against two fast enemy warships and, completely destroying a large destroyer with four hits, successfully evaded the depth charges dropped by the accompanying vessel. When an enemy escort attempted to ram his vessel on 2 December, he skillfully retired on the surface despite fire from the remaining ships. His courage and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Commander Kossler and the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Herman Joseph Kossler (NSN: 0-73525), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Executive and Assistant Approach Officer aboard the U.S.S. GUARDFISH (SS-217), during the aggressive and successful FIRST War Patrol of that submarine in enemy Japanese-controlled waters, during the period 6 August to 15 September 1942. By rendering invaluable assistance in fire control, Lieutenant Kossler, through his keen judgment and coolness under fire, contributed to the sinking of 51,005 tons of enemy shipping. His heroic conduct 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 a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander Herman Joseph Kossler (NSN: 0-73525), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Navigator and Assistant Approach Officer aboard the U.S.S. GUARDFISH (SS-217), during the SECOND and THIRD War Patrols of that submarine in enemy Japanese-controlled waters, during the period 30 September 1942 to 15 February 1943. Performing his duties with skill and daring, Lieutenant Commander Kossler enabled his ship to operate effectively under extremely difficult conditions in close proximity to enemy shores, and was largely responsible for the sinking of 26,000 tons of hostile shipping and the damaging of 8,000 tons. His great courage in the face of danger and his indomitable fighting spirit were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.