The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Shipfitter Second Class Richard William Lynch, United States Navy, for gallantry in action while serving aboard the U.S.S. McCAWLEY (APA-4), on 30 June 1943. When his ship had been torpedoed, Shipfitter Second Class Lynch entered flooded compartments, assisted in shoring bulkheads, and labored in the steering engine room to free the jammed rudder. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.