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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commodore [then Captain] John Thomas Bottom, Jr. (NSN: 0-20401), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Screen Commander and as Commander of a Destroyer Division in action against enemy Japanese forces during the invasion and occupation of the Gilbert Islands, 18 to 26 November 1943. Responsible for providing an effective cover for his Task Group, Commodore Bottom skillfully directed the operations of the units under his command while maintaining position within easy bombing range of Japanese bases for a period of eight days and, although twice subjected to severe enemy aerial torpedo attacks, brought his own ships through undamaged. By his professional skill and unfaltering devotion to duty, he contributed materially to the defense of the entire Task Group and to the success of a vital mission. His courageous and inspiring conduct under fire was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Bronze Star Medal

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commodore

    Action Date:

    July 1943 – May 1945
    Commander in Chief Pacific: Serial 34430 (July 24, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Commodore John Thomas Bottom, Jr. (NSN: 0-20401), United States Navy, for meritorious service as a Destroyer Squadron Commander and as a Representative of Commander Destroyers, United States Pacific Fleet, during operations against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific War Area, from July 1943 to May 1945. Demonstrating outstanding initiative and professional skill, Commodore Bottom efficiently directed the activities of the ships under his command and, as a representative of Commander Destroyers, rendered invaluable assistance in solving the many problems pertaining to the operations, maintenance and training of numerous ships in an area where shore facilities were undeveloped. His leadership throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Commodore Bottom is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)