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 Commander Roger Myers Keithly (NSN: 0-74890), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TILEFISH (SS-307), during the SECOND War Patrol of that Submarine from 22 June to 15 August 1944. In a daylight periscope attack and while under aerial bombardment from enemy planes, he aggressively and skillfully launched his torpedoes and sank a 1,700 ton enemy destroyer who at the time, was engaged in depth-charging a friendly submarine. His skillful evasive tactics during this attack and following the sinking of the enemy destroyer enabled him to avoid severe damage from aerial bombs and escape. His courage and conduct were an inspiration to his officers and men, 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 Commander Roger Myers Keithly (NSN: 0-74890), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy in the line of his profession as Assistant Approach Officer of a United States Submarine, during a War Patrol in enemy controlled waters during World War II. His performance of duty, skill, and expert knowledge of torpedo fire were of great assistance to the Commanding Officer during attacks which resulted in sinking over 18,000 tons of enemy shipping and damaging over 36,000 tons. His conduct throughout this patrol was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.