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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 Thomas Martin Fleck (NSN: 0-71679), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Executive Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. WALLER (DD-466), in action against enemy Japanese forces in Kula Gulf and in the Vila-Stanhope Area of Kolombangara, Solomon Islands, on the night of 5 March 1943. When the Task Force of which the Waller was a unit, engaged and sank two enemy destroyers while proceeding to the target area, Commander Fleck ably directed his officers and men and, by his skillful seamanship, contributed materially to the success of the surface engagement and to the successful completion of the subsequent bombardment of Japanese airfields and shore installations. His skill and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Captain

    Action Date:

    June 6 – December 4, 1951
    Commander 7th Fleet: Serial 1631 (July 1, 1952)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Captain Thomas Martin Fleck (NSN: 0-71679), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commander Destroyer Division ONE HUNDRED FIFTY-TWO, during operations against enemy aggressor forces in Korea, from 6 June to 4 December 1951. An officer of marked skill and resourcefulness, Captain Fleck was highly successful in maintaining operational efficiency prior to and during operations in which the ships of the Destroyer Division inflicted heavy damage upon the enemy. While serving as commander of a task group, he ably directed his ships in conducting effective bombardment and spotting missions along the east coast of Korea although constantly within range of hostile shore batteries. By his outstanding professional skill, sound judgment and zealous devotion to duty, Captain Fleck contributed materially to the success of vital operations against the enemy and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Captain Fleck is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)