The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Silver Star to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Herbert Irving Mandel (NSN: 0-81384), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action in the performance of his duties as Assistant Approach Officer of the U.S.S. CROAKER (SS-246), during the SECOND War Patrol of that Submarine in enemy Japanese-controlled waters, from 23 September to 10 November 1944. Skilled and tireless in the performance of duty, Commander Mandel expertly supervised the activities of personnel under his command and, by his outstanding knowledge of attack problems, rendered invaluable assistance to his Commanding Officer in conducting aggressive attacks against the enemy to sink over 15,000 tons of shipping and to damage over 10,000 tons. His leadership, courage and devotion to the fulfillment of each perilous mission reflect the highest credit upon Commander Mandel and the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Herbert Irving Mandel (NSN: 0-81384), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Torpedo and Gunnery Officer of the U.S.S. FINBACK (SS-230) during three extensive War Patrols of that Submarine in an enemy Japanese controlled area. Despite the strain of prolonged undersea operations in perilous hostile waters, Lieutenant Mandel was courageous and calmly efficient in the performance of his essential duties while his ship relentlessly attacked enemy vessels and employed skillful evasive tactics to counteract the determined anti-submarine measures of airplanes and surface craft. By his valiant and inspiring conduct maintained without regard for his own safety, he assisted materially in the destruction of an important amount of Japanese shipping and contributed to the successful completion of vital missions. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.