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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Kenneth F. Burgess, Jr. (NSN: 106956), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. FLEMING (DE-32) in the vicinity of Okinawa from 10 May to 21 June 1945. During this period, twenty-three days of which were spent on the vital anti-submarine screen, although under constant threat of enemy air attacks and under the strain of almost continuous alerts, he maintained his crew at a high peak of fighting efficiency. His inspiring leadership and outstanding skill resulted in the destruction of three enemy suicide planes without casualties or material damage to his own ship. His courage and devotion to duty were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. Fleming (DE-32)

    Action Date:

    January 13, 1945

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Lieutenant Commander Kenneth F. Burgess, Jr. (NSN: 106956), United States Naval Reserve, 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. FLEMING (DE-32) during operations against the enemy in the Pacific Ocean Area on 13 January 1945. While serving as a unit in the anti-submarine screen of a convoy, his destroyer escort obtained radar contact on an enemy submarine. He skillfully maneuvered his ship in darkness to close and attack the submarine. The depth charge barrage was followed by reddish colored flashes, heavy underwater explosions, and loss of sonar contact. Daylight evidences of the probable destruction of the submarine were bubbling diesel oil, a large slick which persisted in the area for days, and evident of human remains. His keen judgment and professional skill were outstanding and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Lieutenant Commander Burgess is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)