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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Commander Robert Cameron Morton (NSN: 0-77128), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. BACHE (DD-470), during the westward advance of Allied Forces in New Guinea, the Moluccas and Philippine Islands, from 25 December 1943 to 24 October 1944. With his vessel subjected to frequent enemy aerial attacks, Commander Morton efficiently directed the firing of his ship’s guns against hostile shore installations and concentrations during assault and landing operations at Cape Gloucester, Hollandia, Wakde, Biak, Noemfoor, Morotai and Leyte; and bombardments at Admiralty Islands, Wesak, Hansa Bay and Wakde-Sawar, thereby contributing materially to the destruction of installations and the reduction of resistance to our landing forces. After completion of all landings, he operated with the covering forces to prevent hostile surface units from interfering with our operations. His leadership and devotion to duty throughout reflect the highest credit upon Commander Morton and the United States Naval Service. (Commander Morton is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. Bache (DD-470)

    Action Date:

    October 24 – 25, 1944
    Commander 7th Fleet: Serial 0191 (January 9, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander Robert Cameron Morton (NSN: 0-77128), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. BACHE (DD-470), in action against major units of the Japanese Fleet during the night Battle of Surigao Strait, on 24 – 25 October 1944. When the large enemy Task Force, consisting of battleships, cruisers and destroyers, was discovered coming through Surigao Strait, Commander Morton courageously took his ship into action. Skillfully maneuvering in the congested seaway while directing the firing of his gun and torpedo batteries, he scored numerous hits on the powerful enemy ships which, implementing the fire of our battleships and cruisers, resulted in the enemy’s eventual destruction. By his gallant fighting spirit, Commander Morton contributed materially to the great victory achieved by our forces in this historic night engagement, and his fortitude and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.