Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Captain Wallace Henry Garrett, Jr. (NSN: 0-123643), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious service from February 1967 through July 1968 while serving as the DX/DXG Project Manager within the Naval Ship Systems Command. During this period, Captain Garrett organized and managed a complex new program, without precedent in the acquisition of warships, leading to the design and construction of the next generation of destroyers. The project is the largest undertaking of its kind since World War II. Serving in a billet of vital importance to the future composition of the U.S. Fleet, Captain Garrett was responsible for organizing the Project Office, and developing comprehensive plans for the technical development, funding, logistics, and contracting for these new ships. Operating on a compressed timetable, he prepared a total DX/DXG Ship Development Plan in record time. This plan, which has been approved by the Chief of Naval Operations and the Secretary of the Navy, is the foundation for transitioning the operational need for destroyers into the DX/DXG ship construction program. It was the basis for a comprehensive proposal to industry, also prepared under Captain Garrett’s direction, which has led to contracts with industry. His exceptional leadership, imagination, sound judgment, management skill, engineering ability, and unstinting devotion to duty were key factors in the success of this effort and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant [then Lieutenant, Junior Grade]

    Division:

    U.S.S. Buchanan (DD-484)

    Action Date:

    June 30, 1943
    Commander South Pacific: Serial 02096 (November 9, 1943)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant [then Lieutenant, Junior Grade] Wallace Henry Garrett, Jr. (NSN: 0-123643), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Gunnery Officer aboard the Destroyer U.S.S. BUCHANAN (DD-484), during the initial occupation of Rendova Island on 30 June 1943, and in subsequent bombardments of Munda Point in July 1943. Standing in an exposed position Lieutenant Garrett relentlessly sought out each enemy shore battery threatening out transports during unloading operations on Rendova Island and, directing his fire with the utmost skill and accuracy, silenced hostile installations and destroyed Japanese bivouac areas, fuel and ammunition dumps, and airfield facilities. During bombardment of the Munda Area on 7 – 8 and 11 – 12 July 1943, his inspiring leadership and the excellent training given his men enabled the crew of the main battery to come through this operation without a casualty. His outstanding technical skill and gallant devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.