The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain John Robert Middleton, Jr. (NSN: 0-75031), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. THRESHER (SS-200), during the FOURTEENTH War Patrol of that Submarine in enemy Japanese waters from 23 August 1944 to 12 October 1944. Despite strong enemy escorts, which included air support, Commander Middleton skillfully penetrated escort screens to deliver damaging torpedo attacks which resulted in the sinking of three enemy ships totaling 20,600 tons, one of which was a 11,600-ton submarine tender, and in the damaging of an additional enemy freighter of 5,400 tons. After damaging an armed trawler of 150 tons in a running gun engagement, he maneuvered evasively, escaped the heavy enemy counterattacks, which included gunfire, and brought his ship to port. His professional skill, courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.