The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Robert Burns Pirie (NSN: 0-60482), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Chief of Staff of Commander Carrier Task Group THIRTY-EIGHT POINT TWO during the occupation of Palau, air attacks on the Philippine Islands 6 to 24 September 1944, air attacks on Okinawa Jima, Formosa, and Luzon 6 to 20 October 1944, and air attacks on Luzon 29 October 1944 and 5 & 6 November 1944. The Task Group was under heavy and sustained enemy air attack on four occasions during this period but due to the skillful defense by their planes and maneuvering of the formation no major damage to any ship was sustained. Serious losses and damage to the enemy fleet, merchant shipping, aircraft and installations were inflicted. His courageous, determined and skillful performance of duty contributed materially to the success achieved. His actions were in accordance with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Sponsored by:
Awards Received
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Legion of Merit
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Navy Distinguished Service Medal
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Legion of Merit
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Legion of Merit
Service:
United States NavyRank:
CaptainAction Date:
November 7, 1944 – January 25, 1945
Commander 2d Carrier Task Force Pacific: Serial 01138 (February 1, 1945)The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Captain Robert Burns Pirie (NSN: 0-60482), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States in connection with operations against the enemy during the period from 7 November 1944 through 25 January 1945, while serving as Chief of Staff to Commander Carrier Division FOUR, then Commanding Task Group 38.2. He assisted in planning operations against the enemy to the end that the full strength of the Task Group could be most effectively employed. As coordinator of operations and in supervision of execution of missions by units of the Task Group his performance of duty was of pronounced assistance in their successful accomplishment. His sound judgment, aggressive action and courageous attitude while under fire were at all times an inspiration to personnel associated with him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Captain Pirie is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)
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Navy Distinguished Service Medal
Board Serial 732 (September 20, 1962)The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Distinguished Service Medal to Vice Admiral Robert Burns Pirie (NSN: 0-60482), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States as Deputy Chief of Naval Operations (Air) from May 1958 to November 1962. A dynamic leader and skilled technician in the field of aviation, Vice Admiral Pirie has been responsible for advances which contributed significantly to the effectiveness of the naval air arm as an element of sea power and which raised the level of Fleet readiness to unprecedented heights. In strengthening the Navy’s weapons arsenal and improving fleet tactical doctrine, he vigorously sought better weapons and equipment based upon sound research and accurate evaluation of operational experience. Under his direction, significant improvements were achieved in aviation safety, a more efficient and economical program for aviation maintenance was instituted, and training and operating procedures were standardized. Exercising initiative and foresight, Vice Admiral Pirie established the first formal Navy organization for astronautic and led the Navy in the exploitation of space as essential to the perpetuation of sea power supremacy. Through his knowledge and understanding of aviation in general, and of the unique problems of naval aviation in particular, he made important contributions to aviation development as a representative of the Navy and the nation on policy-making boards and committees at inter-service, national and international levels. His inspiring leadership, sound judgment, keen foresight, and untiring devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.
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Legion of Merit
Commander in Chief Pacific: Serial 405 (January 23, 1947)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 to Commander Robert Burns Pirie (NSN: 0-60482), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Assistant Operations Officer on the Staff of Commander Air Forces Pacific during the period from October 1942 to March 1943. Directly responsible for discharging all functions of the Type Commander pertaining to the operations of Fleet Air Wing multi-engine aircraft squadrons, he supervised with exceptional ability the preparation of these units for combat, skillfully controlled their movements until they reported for operational control by the Fleet Air Wing Commanders, and worked out the multitude of complex details involved in planning the rotation of the personnel and aircraft of these units. The results of his efforts are reflected in the outstanding successes achieved by Air Force Pacific multi-engine aircraft squadrons in operations against the enemy. His conduct and devotion to duty at all times were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.