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 Lieutenant Kenneth Francis Beckman (NSN: 0-97997), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in the line of his profession as Chief Engineer and Diving Officer of the U.S.S. BLUEGILL (SS-242) during her FIRST War Patrol in enemy controlled waters, from 3 April 1944 to 1 June 1944. His efficient organization and training of the Engineering Department and his skill as Diving Officer contributed materially to making his ship an efficient fighting unit. His calmness and skill in maintaining excellent depth control made it possible for the Commanding Officer successfully to attack and sink armed enemy vessels and successfully evade the enemy anti-submarine attacks. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to the officers and men of his ship and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.