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 Captain [then Commander] Marvin Granville Kennedy (NSN: 0-62522), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. GUEST (DD-472), in action against enemy Japanese-held Guam, 20 July 1944; the Palau Islands from 30 March to 1 April 1944; and during the First Battle of the Philippine Sea in June 1944. Handling his ship with skill and courage, Captain Kennedy contributed greatly to the subsequent success of these operations. His conduct and leadership were in keeping with 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 Lieutenant Commander Marvin Granville Kennedy (NSN: 0-62522), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. WAHOO (SS-238), during the SECOND War Patrol of that Submarine from 8 November to 16 December 1942. Despite adverse conditions due to poor visibility and rain squalls, Lieutenant Commander Kennedy sighted a Japanese submarine which was surfaced close aboard and, quickly swinging into striking position, launched a daring attack at 800 yards, destroying the submarine by torpedo fire while enemy personnel were still on the bridge. This same fighting spirit and skillful seamanship enabled him to attack and sink a Japanese freighter of 5,644 tons. His bold, aggressive tactics and courageous devotion to the fulfillment of an important mission were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.