⁣Staff Sergeant Bryce F. Lockwood United States Marine
Corps, received the Silver Star for conspicuous gallantry and
intrepidity in action in connection with the unprovoked and unexpected
armed attack on U.S.S. LIBERTY (AGTR-5), in the Eastern Mediterranean,
on 8 June 1967.
During the early afternoon hours, U.S.S. LIBERTY,
while engaged in peaceful operations in international waters, was
attacked without warning by jet fighter aircraft and three motor torpedo
boats. The LIBERTY was subjected to intense incendiary, machine gun,
and rocket fire and was placed in extreme jeopardy by a torpedo hit
below the waterline on the starboard side in the vicinity of the
Research compartment. Severe structural damage and extensive personnel
casualties were incurred. Staff Sergeant Lockwood, serving with U.S.S.
LIBERTY on temporary additional duty, was in the Research Operations
spaces at the time of the attack. After the torpedo attack, Staff
Sergeant Lockwood, despite severe burns, the rapid rise of water, heavy
smoke and complete darkness, was instrumental in the rescue of personnel
from the flooded compartments, thus averting even further loss of life.
Without regard for his personal safety or his injuries, he assisted in
the rescue until ordered to leave. His calm, rational thinking and
actions evidenced a high degree of professional competence and moral
fiber. After the attack and again without regard for his own injuries
and comfort, Staff Sergeant Lockwood spent long tedious hours assisting
in the care of the wounded and in whatever duties were required. Staff
Sergeant Lockwood’s initiative and courageous actions were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.