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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 Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Captain Charles Allen (NSN: 0-34569), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of U.S.S. JAMES O’HARA (APA-90), during the amphibious assault on Italy. Captain Allen, with great skill and judgment, directed the training, planning and performance of his ship under fire, which enabled the embarked troops, vehicles and equipment to be landed promptly and expeditiously on the heavily defended assault beaches. During repeated enemy bombing attacks, he fought his ship ably and effectively and, having accomplished his mission, withdrew without serious casualty to his command. The extraordinary ability, professional skill, and outstanding devotion to duty displayed by Captain Allen reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. (Captain Allen is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)

Awards Received

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Captain

    Division:

    U.S.S. James O’Hara (APA-90)

    Action Date:

    July 1943

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Captain Charles Allen (NSN: 0-34569), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States in the amphibious invasion of the Island of Sicily as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. JAMES O’HARA (APA-90). Captain Allen, by careful preparation, outstanding professional skill, and cool and energetic leadership under fire, effected the landing of embarked troops and equipment in such a manner as to contribute greatly to the success of the assault. He ably fought his ship during enemy bombing attacks, and, upon completion of operations, returned from the combat area without any damage to his ship. The extraordinary ability and outstanding devotion to duty displayed by Captain Allen reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. (Captain Allen is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)