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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Robert Kemble Rittenhouse Worthington (NSN: 0-81257), United States Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving in positions of great responsibility in the torpedo, gun, and ship control parties of the U.S.S. SILVERSIDES (SS-236) during FOUR highly successful War Patrols of that Submarine in enemy controlled waters which resulted in sinking 61,677 tons of enemy shipping and severely damaging 30,210 tons. He displayed conspicuous gallantry and superb skill during the deliver of damaging torpedo and gun attacks against enemy shipping, many of which were in the face of heavy enemy counter-attacks. His conduct throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. Balao (SS-285)

    Action Date:

    February 27 – April 8, 1945
    Commander in Chief Pacific: Serial 030102 (June 9, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Commander Robert Kemble Rittenhouse Worthington (NSN: 0-81257), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. BALAO (SS-285), on the EIGHTH War Patrol of that submarine from 27 February 1945 to 8 April 1945, in enemy controlled waters. Tenaciously attacking the enemy at every quarter, Lieutenant Commander Worthington launched aggressive attacks which resulted in sinking enemy ships for a total of more than 20,000 tons. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Worthington 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.