The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Commander Richard McGowan (NSN: 0-74979), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as the pilot of a carrier-based bomber aircraft embarked in the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16) in the vicinity of the Nansei Shoto Islands on 10 October 1944. In spite of enemy air opposition and intense and continuous anti-aircraft fire he skillfully led his attack and personally scored a direct hit upon a large enemy warship. His courage and disregard for his own safety were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.