The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander David Charles White (NSN: 0-61575), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. PLUNGER (SS-179) during a successful and aggressive submarine patrol in enemy Japanese controlled waters during the period 13 December 1941 to 3 February 1942. He, by his skill and aggressiveness succeeded in sinking one enemy destroyer of 1,315 tons and damaging another destroyer of the same size. Despite enemy counter efforts, he handled his boat in such a manner that he brought it through without damage, and his crew home without loss or injury. His conduct throughout 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 David Charles White (NSN: 0-61575), United States Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. CERO (SS-225) during a War Patrol of that Submarine in enemy-controlled waters during World War II. By his courage, skill and determination he delivered torpedo and gun attacks against heavily escorted enemy vessels, resulting in sinking of an enemy freighter of over 5,000 tons and damaging of four enemy vessels totaling over 33,000 tons. Despite enemy counter-measures, his persistent efforts in carrying out his assigned mission as a unit of a coordinated attack brought excellent results. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.