Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Captain Robert Devore McWethy (NSN: 0-123488/1100), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States from April 1965 to April 1968 while serving as Commander Oceanographic System Atlantic. Displaying outstanding leadership, management ability, and resourcefulness, Captain McWethy successfully directed the widespread operations of the Atlantic Oceanographic System during a period of considerable growth and improvement. Through his exceptional planning and application of a comprehensive technical knowledge, Captain McWethy was responsible for greatly improved classified oceanographic systems and techniques of great importance to the security of the United States. As an international representative of the United States Navy, Captain McWethy’s exceptional tact and diplomacy in coordinating sensitive matters with foreign governments greatly enhanced relationships between these countries and the United States. By his outstanding accomplishments and inspiring devotion to duty, Captain McWethy upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Commander [then Lieutenant]

    Division:

    United States Navy Submarine (SS)

    Action Date:

    World War II

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander [then Lieutenant] Robert Devore McWethy (NSN: 0-123488/1100), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Torpedo Officer and Special Equipment Officer of a United States Submarine during a War Patrol in enemy-controlled waters of the Pacific Ocean. Skillful in analyzing tactical situations, Lieutenant Commander McWethy furnished his Commanding Officer vital information and contributed greatly in the sinking of two hostile freighters and a heavily loaded transport, totaling approximately 20,000 tons, and in the successful evasion of severe enemy countermeasures. His cool courage and judgment reflect the highest credit upon Lieutenant Commander McWethy and the United States Naval Service.