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 THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY

WASHINGTON D. C. 20350

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the BRONZE STAR MEDAL (Gold Star in lieu of Second Award) to

LIEUTENANT COMMANDER GEORGE T. COKER

UNITED STATES NAVAL RESERVE

for service as set forth in the following


 * CITATION:


 * For heroic achievement as a Prisoner of War in North Vietnam in July 1967. Through his ceaseless efforts, in an atmosphere enemy harassment, threat of torture and brutal treatment, he established and maintained intracamp communications. At great risk and in spite of further cruelty, he continued to devise many unusual and ingenious methods in communications, resulting in American and Allied prisoners resisting the enemy's demands and at the same time improving the prisoners morale. By his heroic endeavors, exceptional skill, and devotion to duty, he reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Naval Service and the United States Armed Forces.

The Combat Distinguishing Device is authorized.