The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander John Howard Maurer (NSN: 0-74831), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in the performance of his duties as Assistant Approach Officer of a United States Submarine during an aggressive and successful War Patrol in enemy controlled waters during World War II. His expert coordination of the fire control party, coolness during periods of intense enemy counter-action, and excellent counsel to the Commanding Officer on all attacks, were largely instrumental in helping to sink three enemy ships totaling over 15,400 tons and damaging four additional enemy ships totaling over 27,100 tons. 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 a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Commander John Howard Maurer (NSN: 0-74831), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. ATULE (SS-403) during a War Patrol of that Submarine during World War II. After a determined fifteen-hour chase Commander Maurer launched a skillfully conducted torpedo attack which resulted in the sinking of one combatant unit and the damaging of another, for a total of approximately 2,000 tons. He skillfully evaded enemy countermeasures and brought his ship back to port safely. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.