Navy Federal Credit Union

Clifton Flenniken graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1937. He retired as a U.S. Navy Captain.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander [then Lieutenant Commander]

    Division:

    U.S.S. Bluefish (SS-222)

    Action Date:

    September 9 – October 4, 1943

    Commander in Chief Pacific: Serial 02752 (April 1945)

    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 Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Clifton Wharton Flenniken, Jr., United States Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity in action as Diving Officer of the U.S.S. BLUEFISH (SS-222), during the FIRST War Patrol of that Submarine in enemy Japanese-controlled waters in the Southern Celebes Area, from 9 September to 4 October 1943. Precisely controlling depth, Commander Flenniken rendered valuable assistance to his Commanding Officer in conducting attacks which resulted in sinking more than 15,000 tons of enemy shipping and in damaging over 6,000 tons, thereby contributing materially to the success of his vessel. His courage, skill and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander [then Lieutenant Commander]

    Division:

    U.S.S. S-44 (SS-155)

    Action Date:

    April 24 – August 23, 1942

    Commander 7th Fleet: Serial 02813 (November 7, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Clifton Wharton Flenniken, Jr., United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving successively as Diving Officer, Assistant Approach Officer, Engineering Officer and Executive Officer on board the U.S.S. S-44 (SS-155), during the first four War Patrols of that Submarine in enemy Japanese-controlled Pacific waters, from 24 April to 23 August 1942. By his expert control of depth, maintenance of ship’s equipment and skill in organizing the crew for maximum fighting efficiency, Commander Flenniken rendered invaluable assistance to his Commanding Officer in pressing home aggressive attacks to sink a heavy cruiser and inflict extensive damage on other enemy shipping despite severe hostile countermeasures. His leadership and devotion to duty throughout reflect the highest credit upon Commander Flenniken and the United States Naval Service.