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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Captain Robert William Cavenagh (NSN: 0-60333), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commander Destroyer Division FORTY-SIX during operations against enemy Japanese forces in the South and West Pacific from 4 January 1944 to 9 January 1945. Conducting many independent bombardments and other missions during this period, Captain Cavenagh maneuvered the ships under his command with skill and precision, inflicting heavy damage on the enemy. By his planning, leadership and skill, Captain Cavenagh contributed materially to the capture of Japanese held territory, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Captain Cavenagh is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Captain [then Commander]

    Division:

    U.S.S. Stanley (DD-478)

    Action Date:

    November 1 – 2, 1943
    Commander Southern Pacific Force: Serial 00162 (January 14, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Captain [then Commander] Robert William Cavenagh (NSN: 0-60333), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. STANLEY (DD-478), during an engagement with Japanese naval forces at Empress Augusta Bay, off Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on the night of 1 – 2 November 1943. With his Task Force engaging a Japanese surface force of superior fire power, Captain Cavenagh hurled the full fighting strength of his ship against the enemy and, by his inspiring leadership and skilled combat tactics, aided his Task Force in sinking five hostile warships, in damaging four others and in completely routing the enemy, thereby contributing materially to the successful establishment of our beachhead on Bougainville Island. His determination, relentless fighting spirit and gallant devotion to duty upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Rear Admiral

    Action Date:

    September 11, 1953 – July 27, 1954

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Legion of Merit (Army Award) to Rear Admiral Robert William Cavenagh (NSN: 0-60333), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Deputy Assistant Chief of Staff, J3 Section, Headquarters, Far East and United States Command, in Japan, from 11 September 1953 to 27 July 1954. Admiral Cavenagh actively participated in the development of joint strategic plans and policies governing the operations of the tri-service components of the unified commands. His constant awareness of the psychological and political aspects of the sensitive problems encountered in the activities of the United Nations Command Military Armistice Commission materially assisted in the accomplishment of an essential post-armistice mission. Admiral Cavenagh’s tactful approach and amicable liaison with pertinent government officials and representatives of participating units and agencies were of great value in preparing plans for expansion of the Japanese military establishment and Republic of Korea Armed Forces. He ably assisted in the preparation and conduct of three joint war games and contributed to the formulation and implementation of the Minute of Agreement with the Republic of Korea. Admiral Cavenagh’s commendable achievements significantly furthered the missions and objectives of the United Nations and Far East Commands, reflecting great credit upon himself and the military service.

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Rear Admiral

    Action Date:

    January 15, 1965 – November 30, 1966
    Board Serial 8291 (November 17, 1966)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a gold Star in addition to a previously awarded Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster lieu of a Third Award of the Legion of Merit to Rear Admiral Robert William Cavenagh (NSN: 0-60333), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Chief, Military Assistance Command, Norway, from 15 January 1965 to 30 November 1966. Demonstrating exceptional professional competence in the performance of duty of great importance to the United States, Rear Admiral Cavenagh effectively executed the mission and responsibilities of the Military Assistance Advisory Group with respect to the Military Assistance Program in Norway. Through his dynamic personality, knowledgeable background and relentless endeavors, he has accomplished much in bringing the Governments of Norway and the United States into closer affiliation and has also greatly enhanced the posture of Norway’s military forces and their capability to meet their requirements under the NATO Alliance. By his outstanding leadership, judgment and inspiring devotion to duty, Rear Admiral Cavenagh upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.