Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Charles John McWhinnie (NSN: 0-57665), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as the Commanding Officer of the Destroyer-Transport U.S.S. WATERS (DD-115), during operations against New Georgia Island, British Solomon Islands, on 25 June 1943. Lieutenant McWhinnie assisted in the transporting of troops and supplies in advance of the main attack and in the face of heavy enemy fire in order to secure a beachhead in a vital area. On this operation his ship carried out the mission at a time and in a place where no naval support could be given him. By his skill, courage, and determination he completed the mission without loss or damage to his ship. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. Waters (DD-115)

    Action Date:

    July 1 – November 21, 1943

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Lieutenant Commander Charles John McWhinnie (NSN: 0-57665), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of a destroyer transport operating in the Solomon Islands area during the period from 1 July to 21 November 1943. The ship under the command of Lieutenant Commander McWhinnie took part in the transporting and landing of troops and supplies during operations against New Georgia, Vella Lavella, Treasury and Bougainville Islands, and participated in the bombardment of enemy installations as well as performing escort and reconnaissance duty. Despite the difficulties inherent in the age of the ship, and of navigating unfamiliar and poorly charted waters while under persistent attack by all weapons of the enemy, he successfully accomplished the missions with which he was entrusted. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.