Sponsored by:

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 Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander Frederick Leonard Taeusch, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Executive Officer and Assistant Approach Officer of the U.S.S. PERMIT (SS-178), during the TENTH War Patrol of that Submarine in enemy Japanese-controlled waters from 23 August to 24 September 1943. Alert and aggressive, Lieutenant Commander Taeusch’s capable handling of approach problems were materially responsible for the sinking of three enemy ships totaling over 27,600 tons and for the infliction of serious damage on a hostile warship and a merchant ship with a combined tonnage of over 12,000. By his excellent performance of duty, Lieutenant Commander Taeusch enabled his Commanding Officer to devote his entire time to matters of policy, strategy and tactics, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. Permit (SS-178)

    Action Date:

    World War II

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander Frederick Leonard Taeusch, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Diving Officer of the U.S.S. PERMIT (SS-178), during War Patrols of that Submarine in enemy Japanese-controlled Pacific waters during World War II. Skillfully controlling and operating the ship from below decks while surfacing, Lieutenant Commander Taeusch rendered valiant service during aggressive attacks against the enemy which were executed under extremely hazardous conditions. By his superb professional ability, resourcefulness and unwavering devotion to duty throughout an intensive period of operations, Lieutenant Commander Taeusch contributed materially to the sinking or damaging of seven enemy ships and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.