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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Burton Gay Lake (NSN: 0-17983), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy as Force Operations Officer during amphibious operations at Finschhafen, Eastern New Guinea, on 22 September 1943. After the ships of the assault force left the beachhead on D-Day, many enemy planes of all types attacked the returning convoy which was under the tactical command of Commander SEVENTH Amphibious Force. Although the bridge of the Flagship was the principal target of persistent and concentrated bombing attacks, he maintained efficient control of the ships of the convoy. His cool and courageous performance of duty while under heavy air attack permitted the ships to be radically maneuvered with the result that not one ship of the convoy was damaged and many enemy planes were destroyed. His actions contributed materially to the successful engagement with the enemy and 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 1943 – January 1945
    Commander 7th Fleet: Serial 01682 (April 23, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Captain Burton Gay Lake (NSN: 0-17983), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as a member of the Staff of Commander SEVENTH Amphibious Force from June 1943 to January 1945. As Force Planning Officer he was in charge of planning for all amphibious operations in the Southwest Pacific and as Force Tactical Officer he was directly responsible for their execution. These operations which were initiated in Southwest New Guinea and extended through the Bismarck Archipelago and Molucca Island to the Philippines, included the landings at Cape Gloucester, Saidor, Admiralty Islands, Aitape-Humboldt Bay-Tanamerah, Wakde, Biak, Noemfoor, Sansapor, Morotai, Leyte and Luzon. His sound judgment in the preparation of these plans and his able seamanship and tactical skill in their execution were essential factors in the success of the amphibious campaign in the Southwest Pacific Area. His outstanding performance of duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Captain Lake is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)