Navy Federal Credit Union

John Zullinger graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1939. He retired as a U.S. Navy Captain.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. Pollack (SS-180)

    Action Date:

    February 28 – April 11, 1944

    Pacific Fleet Board Awards: Serial 75 (September 17, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander John Richard Zullinger (NSN: 0-82707), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Assistant Approach Officer of the U.S.S. POLLACK (SS-180), during the NINTH War Patrol of that Submarine in enemy Japanese-infested waters, from 28 February to 11 April 1944. Performing his essential duties with outstanding professional skill throughout this critical period, Lieutenant Commander Zullinger rendered invaluable assistance to his Commanding Officer in delivering aggressive torpedo attacks against enemy surface units and, by his thorough knowledge of attack measures, contributed materially to his ship’s success in sinking three enemy vessels totaling over 21,000 tons and in damaging two more. By his cool courage and marked initiative, Lieutenant Commander Zullinger upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.