The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander Frank Mahlon Parker (NSN: 0-71424), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SWORDFISH (SS-193), during the EIGHTH War Patrol of that Submarine in enemy-controlled waters from 29 July to 20 September 1943. Carrying out a daring, aggressive surface maneuver under extremely hazardous conditions, Lieutenant Commander Parker skillfully attained a strategic position ahead of a strongly escorted enemy convoy and, submerging for a determined strike against the hostile ships, seriously damaged two large transports. Later during the same patrol, his submarine courageously attacked another escorted convoy, sinking an important enemy freighter. Lieutenant Commander Parker’s superb seamanship and the valiant devotion to duty of his officers and men throughout these perilous missions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.