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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Francis Edward Fleck, Jr. (NSN: 0-73551), United States Navy, for meritorious achievement as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. CHAMPLIN (DD-601), during advanced operations in support of the Allied Armies in Italy from 15 May to 5 August 1944. Commencing with the coastal advance northward, Commander Fleck operated his ship in support of the ground movement, carrying out effective shore bombardments of enemy installations and concentrations, operating against hostile submarine and E-boat attacks on vital maintenance shipping and supporting advanced minesweeping formations in clearing heavily mined approaches to ports occupied by our forces despite opposing aerial attacks and the restricted and dangerous waters in which his ship was called upon to operate. His professional ability and leadership were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander [then Lieutenant Commander]

    Division:

    U.S.S. Champlin (DD-601)

    Action Date:

    August 18 – 30, 1944
    Commander 8th Fleet: Serial 5443 (October 19, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Francis Edward Fleck, Jr. (NSN: 0-73551), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. CHAMPLIN (DD-601), during the amphibious invasion of Southern France between 18 and 30 August 1944. By skillfully maneuvering his ship and accurately directing its gunfire, Commander Fleck contributed to the effective support of the advancing ground forces in clearing the enemy from coastal positions on the right flank of the central assault area. Braving strong return fire, he conducted the shore bombardment with competence and vigor, silenced several enemy shore batteries, saturated enemy troop and tank concentrations and harassed the interior supply lines. His able participation in this action materially assisted in the expulsion of the enemy from Southern France and his prompt action and steadfast devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.