The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander [then Lieutenant] Robert Lakin Gurnee, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving on board a United States Submarine, throughout three War Patrols of that vessel in enemy Japanese-controlled waters. Relieving the sightsetter and taking his place at the gun during a surface engagement with an enemy auxiliary sailing cargo vessel, Lieutenant Commander Gurnee rallied the crew under hostile rifle fire and, by his expert spotting and direction, aided in destroying the armed Japanese craft. Performing all assigned duties with superb professional ability, he rendered invaluable assistance to his Commanding Officer in pressing home bold and aggressive attacks against Japanese surface vessels, contributing immeasurably to the success of the submarine in sinking and damaging an important amount of enemy shipping. His outstanding leadership, cool courage and unwavering devotion to the completion of each perilous mission reflect the highest credit upon Lieutenant Commander Gurnee and 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 Lieutenant Commander Robert Lakin Gurnee, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Assistant Approach Officer of the U.S.S. REDFISH (SS-395), during the FIRST War Patrol of that Submarine in enemy Japanese-controlled waters of the Pacific Ocean Area, from 23 July to 2 October 1944. Displaying thorough knowledge of attack problems, Lieutenant Commander Gurnee rendered invaluable assistance to his Commanding Officer in pressing home daring torpedo attacks against enemy shipping, thereby contributing materially to the success of his vessel in sinking five hostile ships totaling 33,500 tons and in damaging three others totaling 24,500 tons. With his ship subjected to enemy depth charging and aerial bombing, he aided in conducting effective evasive tactics and in returning safe to port. His skill, courage and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Lieutenant Commander Gurnee and the United States Naval Service.