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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 Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander Hugh Howard Lewis (NSN: 0-73297), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. STERLET (SS-392), during the FOURTH War Patrol of that Submarine in the Kurile Island and Sea of Okhotak areas from 29 April to 10 June 1945. Daringly penetrating a strong enemy escort screen, the Commanding Officer launched a skillfully conducted torpedo attack which resulted in the sinking of a 2,231-ton freighter and an 820-ton escort vessel, and the severe damaging of a 5,000-ton freighter. Despite accurate enemy gunfire and other countermeasures, the Commanding Officer skillfully effected his retirement and brought his ship back to port safely. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. Seal (SS-183)

    Action Date:

    August 8 – September 17, 1944
    Commander in Chief Pacific: Serial 81 (January 16, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander Hugh Howard Lewis (NSN: 0-73297), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action in the performance of his duties as Assistant Approach Officer aboard the U.S.S. SEAL (SS-183), during the ELEVENTH War Patrol of that Submarine from 8 August 1944 to 17 September 1944. His thorough knowledge of attack problems together with his outstanding ability and proficiency, assisted his Commanding Officer considerably in conducting aggressive and successful torpedo attacks which resulted in the sinking and damaging of enemy ships totaling over 25,000 tons. His coolness and high degree of efficiency greatly assisted his ship in conducting successful evasive tactics during enemy countermeasures. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to the officers and men with whom he served and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.