Underwood's record of success in his war patrols remains one of the most notable in the history of the United States Navy Submarine Service.

SPADEFISH (SS-411), on the FIRST War Patrol of that submarine during the period 23 July 1944 to 24 September 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the Luzon Strait in the Philippine Islands.

Through tenacious and highly aggressive actions Commander Underwood skillfully penetrated heavy and unusually alert escort screens, which included air support, to press home cleverly planned and well executed torpedo attacks which resulted in the sinking of six enemy ships totaling 40,000 tons and damaging two additional enemy ships totaling 14,500 tons.

Subsequent heavy anti-submarine efforts by the enemy and their depth charging were skillfully evaded by his intelligent evasive tactics thus enabling him to escape and avoid severe damage to his ship.

By his superb skill, courage, and aggressiveness, Commander Underwood successfully launched well-planned and smartly executed attacks which resulted in sinking enemy ships totaling over 30,000 tons and damaging an additional large vessel.

By his vast experience gained in previous depth charge attacks, he cleverly evaded extremely heavy countermeasures and brought his ship back to port.