The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Robert Edson Dornin (NSN: 0-74888), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Gunnery Officer and Torpedo Officer of the U.S.S. GUDGEON (SS-211), during the first TWO War Patrols of that submarine from 11 December 1941 to 18 May 1942 in enemy-controlled waters, which resulted in the sinking of 21,400 tons of Japanese shipping. Through his tireless, patient, and expert manipulation of fire control equipment, Lieutenant Dornin solved quickly and accurately all fire control problems, contributing in great part to the success of the submarine’s attacks, in which four enemy vessels were sunk. Three of these engagements were night surface attacks, each of which was completed, from sighting to hitting, within fifteen minutes. Lieutenant Dornin’s loyal devotion to duty and outstanding seamanship were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

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 Robert Edson Dornin (NSN: 0-74888), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Executive Officer and Assistant Approach Officer of the U.S.S. GUDGEON (SS-211), during a War Patrol of that submarine in hostile waters. Due to the skill and accuracy with which Lieutenant Dornin handled the torpedo data computer, a total of eighteen hits out of a possible thirty was registered on enemy vessels, five ships in three enemy convoys being successfully attacked. In addition, when depth charges were launched on his vessel after each attack, Lieutenant Dornin carried out his duties as Executive Officer in such a cool and courageous manner that he instilled in his crew the utmost confidence, which contributed largely to the efficient operation of the vessel and its subsequent escape. His loyal devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Silver Star to Commander [then Lieutenant] Robert Edson Dornin (NSN: 0-74888), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Assistant Approach Officer of the U.S.S. GUDGEON (SS-211), during the FOURTH War Patrol of that submarine in enemy-controlled waters off Truk Island, from 11 July to 2 September 1942. Displaying excellent judgment and a thorough knowledge of attack problems, Commander Dornin contributed materially to the success of attacks on four large enemy merchant-type ships, three of which were heavily escorted by anti-submarine vessels, resulting in the sinking of all four ships with a total damage to the enemy of an estimated 35,000 tons sunk. Commander Dornin’s skill, courage, and devotion to duty throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander Robert Edson Dornin (NSN: 0-74888), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TRIGGER (SS-237), during a War Patrol of that submarine in enemy-controlled waters. Skillfully maneuvering to within dangerously close range of an enemy-escorted convoy, Lieutenant Commander Dornin launched a daring and vigorous attack, sinking one of the escort vessels. Although immediately subjected to a severe depth-charge attack, he boldly struck again and destroyed a large hostile ship, successfully evading all subsequent countermeasures and bringing his submarine safe to port. His forceful leadership and the gallant fighting spirit of the officers and men under his command reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.