The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Alfred Joseph Toulon, Jr. (NSN: 82428), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Gunnery Officer of the U.S.S. GRENADIER (SS-210) during the SIXTH War Patrol of that Submarine from 21 April 1943 to 23 April 1943, west of the Malay Peninsula, and as a Prisoner of War in Japanese Prison Camps from 23 April 1943 to 2 September 1945. His excellent supervision of gunnery equipment and efficient direction of gunfire resulted in the GRENADIER’s damaging an enemy aircraft so badly that the pilot of the aircraft was unable to release his bomb during his first attack and caused him to be most inaccurate in his point of release during the second attack by the same aircraft. It is believed that the damage inflicted upon the enemy aircraft resulted in its ultimate destruction. As a result of his coolness under fire and excellent direction of gunfire from the GRENADIER, he materially assisted his Commanding Officer in saving all members in the crew of his fatally damaged ship. While in a special Japanese Naval Interrogation Camp, the crew of the GRENADIER were victims of some of Japan’s wildest and most inhumane atrocities. On several occasions, Lieutenant Toulon was tortured and beaten to the point of prostration because he would not divulge military information. During his two years and five months confinement, his outstanding character, excellent example, self-sacrifice and extraordinary heroism were at all times an inspiration to others and helped them to unflinchingly face the worst the Japanese had to offer. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to all with whom he served, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.