The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Commander George Ellis Pierce (NSN: 0-71646), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TUNNY (SS-282), on the NINTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 28 May to 6 July 1945, in enemy controlled waters in the Pacific War Area. With extreme daring, fully aware of the perils involved in this hitherto un-attempted undertaking, he penetrated strong anti-submarine mine barriers and entered supposedly inviolable enemy waters. He then conducted an aggressive patrol against enemy shipping. At the completion of this special mission he made his exit through heavily mined and patrolled waters and brought his ship back to port safely. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers, his men and to the entire Submarine Service, and 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 the Navy Cross to Commander George Ellis Pierce (NSN: 0-71646), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TUNNY (SS-282), on the EIGHTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 5 March to 14 April 1945, in enemy controlled waters in the Pacific War Area. This patrol was devoted to operations of great importance which were successfully completed. In addition, he sank a 200-ton lugger in a well conducted gun engagement. His brilliant tactics enabled him to return his ship safely to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.