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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Orme Campbell Robbins (NSN: 0-73401), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry in action while serving as Assistant Approach Officer on board the U.S.S. SHAD (SS-235), during a War Patrol of that submarine in enemy-infested waters of the Atlantic Ocean in 1943. Undaunted by threat of attack from hostile aircraft, submarines and surface units, Commander Robbins assisted in locating a strong enemy formation consisting of a large blockade runner carrying vital materials, escorted by four heavy destroyers. As Assistant Approach Officer, he rendered invaluable aid to his Commanding Officer in inflicting damage on this formidable enemy group during a night surface attack. His devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. Sterlet (SS-392)

    Action Date:

    September 18 – November 30, 1944
    Commander in Chief Pacific: Serial 01665 (February 25, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander Orme Campbell Robbins (NSN: 0-73401), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. STERLET (SS-392), on the SECOND War Patrol of that submarine during the period 18 September 1944 to 30 November 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the Pacific War Area. By his daring, skill, and determination, Commander Robbins successfully launched attacks which resulted in sinking enemy vessels totaling more than 20,000 tons. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Robbins brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and 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. Sterlet (SS-392)

    Action Date:

    July 4 – August 26, 1944

    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] Orme Campbell Robbins (NSN: 0-73401), United States Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity in action in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. STERLET (SS-392), during the FIRST War Patrol of that submarine in enemy controlled waters from 4 July 1944 to 26 August 1944. By his excellent skill and ability, he penetrated strong and unusually alert enemy surface and air escort screens to launch five well planned and smartly executed torpedo attacks, and one daring and aggressive gun attack against enemy shipping. These successful torpedo and gun attacks resulted in the sinking of three enemy ships totaling 13,500 tons and one small freighter of 700 tons. His skillful evasive tactics and excellent seamanship enabled him to escape severe enemy counter-measures and bring his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.