Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. Nashville (CL-3)

    Action Date:

    September 15, 1943 – December 13, 1944

    Board Serial 003 (January 9, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Legion of Merit (Posthumously) to Commander Richard Roome Boutelle (NSN: 0-73437), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Engineer Officer of the Light Cruiser U.S.S. NASHVILLE (CL-3) from 15 September 1943 to 13 December 1944. During the period of his service, that ship participated in many bombardments in the Central Pacific Area and many bombardments and landing operations in the South Pacific and Southwest Pacific Areas. In addition, this ship, with high officials embarked, proceeded on various important independent missions. The engineering plant required little attention of personnel outside the engineering department of the ship. Furthermore, from time to time, the engineering personnel assisted other vessel as regards repairs and material. When mortally wounded by enemy action, Commander Boutelle’s last thoughts were of his duties and he was attempting to carry out these duties when he died. In addition, so well were his subordinates trained by him that, although the ship was seriously damaged, they were able to carry one efficiently and restore the fighting power of the ship under grave conditions. Throughout, Commander Boutelle’s conduct and splendid service in this position of responsibility, reflect great credit upon himself, the ship, and the United States Naval Service.