The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Walter Chilcott Ford (NSN: 0-59556), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. PERKINS (DD-377), during an action with Japanese Naval Forces in the Solomon Island area on the night of 30 November 1942. Engaging the enemy with gun and torpedo fire, Commander Force contributed to the destruction of the Japanese force and the frustration of its mission. His bold and skillful handling of his ship in the face of grave danger was of inestimable value in rendering assistance to a damaged cruiser. His courageous conduct and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
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Awards Received
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Legion of Merit
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Legion of Merit
Chief of Naval Operations: Serial 33P10 (January 15, 1947)The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Captain Walter Chilcott Ford (NSN: 0-59556), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Secretary, Academic Board at the United States Naval Academy during the period 11 June 1943 to 26 June 1945. Captain Ford was responsible for the administration and training of midshipmen at the Naval Academy during an extremely critical period. By his outstanding initiative, leadership and administrative ability in carrying out the mission of the Naval Academy in this most important assignment, Captain Ford contributed materially to the indoctrination of midshipmen in the high standards and officer-like qualities demanded of the Naval Service, and these efforts assisted in our sustained success in the prosecution of the war and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.