The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Captain Robert Green Lockhart (NSN: 0-58651), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Deputy Commander, First Air Wing FOUR, in connection with operations against enemy Japanese forces in the North Pacific Area from March to September 1945. By his untiring efforts, initiative and leadership, Captain Lockhart was largely instrumental in increasing the tempo and effectiveness of aerial operations of the Air Wing against enemy forces in the Kuriles, thereby contributing materially to the success of our forces in this area. His determination and unremitting devotion to duty throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Sponsored by:
Awards Received
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Silver Star
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Silver Star
Service:
United States NavyRank:
Captain [then Commander]Division:
U.S.S. Hornet (CV-8)Action Date:
October 26, 1942
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain [then Commander] Robert Green Lockhart (NSN: 0-58651), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Navigator of the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-8), in action against enemy Japanese forces at Santa Cruz, Philippine Islands, on 26 October 1942. During an enemy air attack on his ship, when a hostile plane struck the bridge and torpedo and bomb hits caused fires in other parts of the vessel, Captain Lockhart calmly remained at his post conning the ship and rendering valuable assistance to his Commanding Officer. In his determination to save his ship despite the personal hazards involved, he coordinated all activities such as fire fighting and damage control until further effort was rendered useless and it was necessary to abandon ship. His skill, leadership and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.