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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Legion of Merit to Commander Morton Claire Mumma, Jr., United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States while Commanding motor torpedo boat squadrons in the New Britain-New Guinea area from 5 November 1943 to 8 February 1944. Commander Mumma repeatedly engaged hostile aircraft and barge traffic and maintained an intensive blockade by running in close under heavy enemy shore batteries.

Awards Received

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander

    Action Date:

    World War II

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Commander Morton Claire Mumma, Jr., United States Navy, was awarded the Legion of Merit for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States during World War II.

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. Sailfish (SS-192)

    Action Date:

    December 13, 1941
    Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 322 (January 1944) & 329 (August 1944)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Commander Morton Claire Mumma, Jr., United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SAILFISH (SS-192), on the FIRST War Patrol of that submarine in enemy controlled waters of off Luzon, Philippine Islands. On the night of 13 December 1941, the ship made contact with a convoy escorted by three Japanese destroyers. Lieutenant Commander Mumma boldly maneuvered his submarine into striking position despite enemy depth charge counter measures and directed operations and fire to score a torpedo hit on an enemy destroyer. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Mumma brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.