First citation (as per Hyland), final comments:
The extraordinary daring and personal courage of Lieutenant (Junior Grade) KERRY in attacking a numerical superior force in the face of intense fire were responsible for the highly successful mission. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Second (Lehman) citation, final comments:
The extraordinary daring and personal courage of Lieutenant (Junior Grade) KERRY in attacking a numerical superior force in the face of intense fire were responsible for the highly successful mission. By his brave action, bold initiative, and unwaverying devotion to duty, Lieutenant (jg) Kerry reflected great credit upon hiimself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Those are boilerplate differences. No substance in them covers the action that lead to the award.
"By his brave action, bold initiative, and unwaverying devotion to duty, Lieutenant (jg) Kerry reflected great credit upon hiimself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."
THAT'S padding.
Do you have a source for those two versions?
Thanks.