The Bronze Star Medal is a United States Armed Forces individual military decoration which may be awarded for bravery, acts of merit, or meritorious service. When awarded for bravery, it is the fourth-highest combat award of the U.S. Armed Forces and the 9th highest military award (including both combat and non-combat awards) in the order of precedence of U.S. military decorations.
For meritorious service while interned as a Prisoner of War in North Vietnam from December 1969 to January 1973. During this period, although under constant surveillance from his captors; he performed duties involving highly classified material in an exemplary and professional manner. Through his zealousness and ingenuity, he generated new ideas and improvised techniques greatly enhancing covert operations. Although in a hostile environment, he never wavered in his devotion and loyalty to the United States and his fellow prisoners. By his inspiring courage, exceptional skill and resourcefulness, he reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United Suites Naval Service and the United States Armed Forces.
