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 Robert G. Black (NSN: 0-102814), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Executive Officer, Navigator, and Assistant Approach Officer of the U.S.S. GUITARRO (SS-363) during her THIRD War Patrol in enemy controlled waters from 8 October 1944 to 16 November 1944. Lieutenant Black’s services were indispensable in actions resulting in sinking four enemy ships and damaging a heavy cruiser with a credited total of 28,200 tons sunk and 7,000 tons damaged. His skill in navigation enabled his vessel to operate close inshore in the hazardous waters of the East Indies and Philippine Islands despite the constant presence of enemy searches by numerous aircraft and surface forces. The cool and courageous manner in which he aided in controlling the torpedo fire delivered under trying conditions of battle and the brave, calm and inspiring manner in which he controlled his station while subjected to severe and damaging depth charges while his ship was submerged contributed largely to the success of this patrol and the safe return of this vessel to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to the officers and men in his ship, and were 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 Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Robert G. Black (NSN: 0-102814), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in the line of his profession. During four war patrols in enemy controlled waters and despite determined enemy opposition he skillfully performed his duties as Torpedo Data Computer Operator of the U.S.S. BATFISH (SS-310) and thus assisted materially in the sinking of an important amount of Japanese shipping. His excellent judgment in carrying out his assigned duties contributed in large measure to the success of the ship. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.