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Navy Federal Credit Union

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 [then Lieutenant Commander] Byron Horne Nowell, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Commander of the U.S.S. PADDLE (SS-263), during the FOURTH War Patrol of that Submarine in enemy Japanese-controlled waters from 5 June to 29 July 1944. Maneuvering his vessel into position from which to strike the enemy in a daylight attack at close range, Commander Nowell sank an enemy destroyer of the MINEKAZE Class and a large freighter. Successfully evading all countermeasures, and depth-charge attacks from other enemy escort vessels which were in the immediate vicinity, he brought his ship to port without damage and without injury to his crew. His professional skill, courage and outstanding devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Commander Nowell, his gallant officers and men and the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander [then Lieutenant Commander]

    Division:

    U.S.S. Paddle (SS-263)

    Action Date:

    March 19 – May 12, 1944
    Commander 7th Fleet: Serial 02069 (July 31, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Byron Horne Nowell, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. PADDLE (SS-263), during the THIRD War Patrol of that Submarine in enemy Japanese-controlled waters from 19 March to 12 May 1944. Skillfully maneuvering his ship in the face of grave hazards, Commander Nowell launched a series of bold, aggressive attacks against a heavily-escorted hostile convoy, sinking a Japanese destroyer and a freighter totaling 10,787 tons and damaging an enemy tanker of 7,300 tons. By his courage and expert seamanship, Commander Nowell contributed directly to the success of our forces in this area, and his devotion to the fulfillment of his dangerous missions was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.