The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Lieutenant Frederick James Masterson, United States Navy, for meritorious service while interned as a Prisoner of War in North Vietnam from July 1972 to March 1973. Under the most adverse of conditions, he never wavered in his devotion and loyalty to the United States and his fellow prisoners. Despite the adversities of confinement, he performed such duties and responsibilities as assigned by superiors and required of the Code of Conduct in an exemplary and highly professional manner. Displaying extraordinary courage, resourcefulness, and dedication throughout this period of imprisonment, he reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Naval Service and the United States Armed Forces. (Lieutenant Masterson is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)