Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Commander Frederic Shrom Habecker, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. MAYO during the invasion of Italy in September 1943. Commander Habecker conducted accurate and timely shore bombardment and effectively screened the transport areas against submarine menace. When the British hospital ship NEWFOUNDLAND was bombed, he maneuvered alongside, placed a fire and rescue party aboard and removed survivors to safety.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Captain [then Commander]

    Division:

    U.S.S. Richard P. Leary (DD-664)

    Action Date:

    October 24 – 25, 1944
    Commander 7th Fleet: Serial 0647 (February 9, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Captain [then Commander] Frederic Shrom Habecker, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. RICHARD P. LEARY (DD-664), in action against enemy Japanese forces at Surigao Strait during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands on the night of 24 – 25 October 1944. Participating in a night torpedo attack against an advancing column of enemy battleships, cruisers and destroyers, Captain Habecker directed his ship through intense and prolonged enemy gunfire to launch a well executed attack and succeeded in retiring without damage to his vessel. By his leadership and courage, he contributed to the decisive defeat of the hostile force and his devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.