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] Robert Carlisle Giffen, Jr. (NSN: 0-81208), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Diving Officer on board the U.S.S. GURNARD (SS-254), during the SECOND War Patrol of that Submarine in enemy Japanese-controlled waters near the Palau Islands, from 12 June to 26 July 1943. Rendering valuable assistance, Commander Giffen maintained a careful and precise control of depth which contributed materially to the success of his vessel in sinking 15,000 tons of enemy shipping, damaging an additional 43,000 tons, and in successfully evading all enemy countermeasures. His courage and devotion to duty upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander [then Lieutenant] Robert Carlisle Giffen, Jr. (NSN: 0-81208), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Assistant Approach Officer of the U.S.S. SNAPPER (SS-185), during the EIGHTH War Patrol of that Submarine in enemy Japanese-controlled waters from 19 October to 14 December 1943. Displaying excellent judgment and a thorough knowledge of attack problems, Commander Giffen rendered valuable assistance to his Commanding Officer in sinking more than 20,000 tons of enemy shipping, and damaging more than 5,000 tons. By his coolness and ability, he contributed directly to the success of his vessel in evading enemy countermeasures, and his devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.