Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain [then Commander] Joseph Dwight McKinney (NSN: 0-61536), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. MARSHALL (DD-676), in action against enemy forces during the capture and occupation of Saipan, the First Battle of the Philippine Sea, the capture and occupation of Guam, raids on Palau-Yap-Ulithi, Mindanao, Visayas, Luzon, Nansei Shoto and Formosa, support raids against enemy installations in the Philippine Islands and the Battle for Leyte Gulf, from 9 June to 27 November 1944. Fighting his ship with skill and determined aggressiveness, Captain McKinney rendered valiant service during a protracted period of intensive warfare, maintaining his command in superb combat readiness and hurling her full strength against frequent hostile air attacks and enemy installations. Under his courageous direction, the MARSHALL achieved an outstanding record for providing gunfire protection for our heavy units against enemy air attacks and succeeded in destroying two enemy aircraft and in rescuing the crews of thirteen planes downed in hostile waters. His inspiring leadership and zealous 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:

    March 29, 1952 – January 28, 1953
    Commander Naval Forces Far East: Serial 3742 (March 14, 1953)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Captain Joseph Dwight McKinney (NSN: 0-61536), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Chief of Staff on the Staff of the Commander Amphibious Group THREE during the period 29 March 1952 to 28 January 1953. Displaying a thorough understanding of all amphibious operations in the Far East, Captain McKinney was instrumental in providing effective planning and execution of the amphibious training of Army and Marine regiments and battalions; the transportation of thousands of prisoners of war by ships in Korean waters; the successful amphibious demonstration off Eastern Korea in October 1952; and many other diverse amphibious operations. Throughout this period, he discharged his many responsibilities with exceptional skill, foresight and perseverance and contributed materially to the outstanding amphibious conduct and training of the Naval, Army and Marine forces in the Far East. His outstanding professional ability, resolute determination and conscientious devotion to the fulfillment of a vital task reflect the highest credit upon Captain McKinney and the United States Naval Service. (Captain McKinney is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)