Navy Federal Credit Union

John McKnight graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1930. He retired as a U.S. Navy Rear Admiral.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. Porpoise (SS-172)

    Action Date:

    December 30, 1941 – January 15, 1943

    Commander in Chief Pacific: Serial 0762 (April 3, 1943)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander John Rowland McKnight, Jr. (NSN: 0-63291), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in combat while serving as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. S-36 (SS-141) and U.S.S. PORPOISE (SS-172) during five extensive war patrols in enemy Japanese controlled waters from December 1941 to 15 January 1943. In spite of persistent and extremely harassing hostile opposition, Lieutenant Commander McKnight, displaying excellent judgment and skillful seamanship in his ability to take advantage of every attack opportunity, distinguished himself by sinking a significant amount of Japanese shipping. Through his expert maneuvering he achieved this outstanding success without disabling damage to his own ship. His valiant leadership and steadfast devotion to duty throughout the patrols were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.