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 Eli Thomas Reich, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SEALION (SS-315), on the SECOND War Patrol of that submarine during the period 17 August 1944 to 30 September 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the Luzon Straits. Commander Reich skillfully launched smashing torpedo attacks which resulted in the sinking of a 2,300-ton enemy destroyer, two large tankers and three large transports for a total of 51,700 tons. Later in the search for additional enemy shipping, his exceptional alertness enabled him to discover and rescue 54 British and Australian prisoners of war when the ship in which they were being transported from Singapore to the Japanese Empire was sunk. His skillful evasive tactics enabled him to escape enemy counter-attacks without damage to his ship and his outstanding resourcefulness in providing for the care of the sick and wounded survivors rendered it possible for all to reach port safely. Commander Reich’s inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital missions and reflect great credit upon 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 Navy Cross to Commander Eli Thomas Reich, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SEALION (SS-315), on the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine during the period 31 October 1944 to 1 December 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the East China Sea. Commander Reich displayed such extraordinary heroism, tenacious fighting spirit and good judgment in launching brilliant attacks on enemy warships that his conduct provided an inspiration to all submarine personnel. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Reich brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and 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 Eli Thomas Reich, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SEALION (SS-315), on the FIRST War Patrol of that submarine during the period 8 June 1944 to 21 July 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the East China Sea. Commander Reich skillfully penetrated strong enemy escort screens and launched smashing torpedo attacks which resulted in the sinking of enemy ships totaling over 19,000 tons. In addition, a well-conducted gun attack destroyed a 100-ton enemy sampan. He skillfully evaded serious damage by depth-charging and through his experience and sound judgment Commander Reich brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.