The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Captain Paul Seymour Theiss (NSN: 0-7860), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States during World War II. After personally directing the first landings of American forces on New Georgia Island, as Officer-in-Charge of the assault flotilla, Captain Theiss conducted extensive reconnaissance missions for further landings and future beachheads, frequently in the face of enemy fire.
Sponsored by:
Awards Received
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Navy Cross
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Navy Cross
Service:
United States NavyRank:
CaptainDivision:
Transport DivisionAction Date:
August 7, 1942
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Captain Paul Seymour Theiss (NSN: 0-7860), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as Acting Division Commander of a Transport Division, in action against the enemy on 7 August 1942, and as a Commander of a Task Unit of seven ships during the period 7 to 15 September 1942, at Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands. Captain Theiss, in spite of repeated enemy air attacks, led his force with such skill and determination that no damage was sustained by any vessel under his command on either occasion. He participated in the initial landing operation and contributed materially to its success. During the September period he succeeded in landing reinforcements and supplies for the United States Marines on Guadalcanal. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.