The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander [then Lieutenant] Richard Lee Downing (NSN: 0-82708), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action in the performance of his duties in the U.S.S. Haddo (SS-255), during the NINTH War Patrol of that Submarine in action against enemy Japanese forces in the East China Sea and Yellow Sea Areas from 31 May to 16 July 1945. Through his excellent judgment and extensive knowledge of attack problems, Lieutenant Commander Downing rendered invaluable assistance to his Commanding Officer in conducting gun and torpedo attacks which resulted in the sinking of four enemy merchant ships, a 1,200-ton escort vessel, a 700-ton patrol frigate and two small craft for a total of 18,000 tons of enemy shipping. His courage, skill and devotion to duty while under persistent enemy gunfire were contributing factors in the success of the surfaced HADDO in escaping through hazardous shallow waters of the enemy’s inner defenses. His conduct throughout reflects the highest credit upon Lieutenant Commander Downing and the United States Naval Service.