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Navy Federal Credit Union

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 Lieutenant Commander Bladen Dulany Claggett (NSN: 0-74912), United States Naval Reserve, for gallantry and intrepidity in the performance of his duties as Assistant Approach Officer of the U.S.S. PARGO (SS-264), during the FIRST highly successful and aggressive War Patrol in enemy controlled waters from 18 August to 6 October 1943. His intelligent use of attack data and fire control equipment was of invaluable assistance to his Commanding Officer in destroying a total of over 27,600 tons and damaging an additional vessel of over 9,800 tons. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to the officers and men in his ship, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Captain [then Commander]

    Division:

    U.S.S. Dace (SS-247)

    Action Date:

    September 1 – November 6, 1944
    Commander 7th Fleet: Serial 0805 (February 21, 1945

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Captain [then Commander] Bladen Dulany Claggett (NSN: 0-74912), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. DACE (SS-247), in her FIFTH War Patrol in enemy-controlled waters, from 1 September 1944 to 6 November 1944. Captain Claggett displayed outstanding ability and great courage in three persistent attacks against the enemy, in which three large vessels were sunk. He evaded the enemy escorts through the skill and excellent fighting spirit of his ship. During his patrol, he made a successful rescue of the entire crew of the U.S.S. DARTER, which had been grounded on a shoal. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States of America.

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant

    Division:

    U.S.S. Guardfish (SS-217)

    Action Date:

    August 6 – November 28, 1942
    Commander in Chief Pacific: Serial 29

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Bladen Dulany Claggett (NSN: 0-74912), United States Naval Reserve, for gallantry and intrepidity in action as Gunnery Officer and Torpedo Officer of the U.S.S. GUARDFISH (SS-217) during the FIRST and SECOND War Patrols of that Submarine in enemy controlled waters from 6 August to 28 November 1942. He rendered invaluable service as Torpedo Data Computer Operator in which his excellent judgment, quick, accurate analysis of all problems contributed directly in the sinking of 66,450 tons and severely damaging 14,200 tons of enemy shipping. During two successful gun attacks, he showed absolute disregard for personal safety while coolly directing the gun crew from his exposed station. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.