The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander Gordon Waite Underwood (NSN: 0-71439), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SPADEFISH (SS-411), on the FIRST War Patrol of that submarine during the period 23 July 1944 to 24 September 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the Luzon Strait in the Philippine Islands. Through tenacious and highly aggressive actions Commander Underwood skillfully penetrated heavy and unusually alert escort screens, which included air support, to press home cleverly planned and well executed torpedo attacks which resulted in the sinking of six enemy ships totaling 40,000 tons and damaging two additional enemy ships totaling 14,500 tons. Subsequent heavy anti-submarine efforts by the enemy and their depth charging were skillfully evaded by his intelligent evasive tactics thus enabling him to escape and avoid severe damage to his ship. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Underwood 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 a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Navy Cross to Commander Gordon Waite Underwood (NSN: 0-71439), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SPADEFISH (SS-411), on the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine during the period 6 January 1945 to 13 February 1945, in enemy controlled waters of the East China Sea. Making six courageous attacks in the face of unusually numerous escorts, Commander Underwood coolly penetrated the defenses of four escort vessels each time and successfully concluded five attacks which resulted in sinking four enemy ships for a total of 16,400 tons and in damaging one ship for 7,500 tons. By his vast experience gained in previous depth charge attacks, he cleverly evaded extremely heavy countermeasures and brought his ship back to port. His skill, courage and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.