Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant John Frederick Miller, Jr. (NSN: 0-82571), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in the line of his profession while serving as a member of the Staff of a Flag Officer commanding task forces and task units in action against the enemy during numerous actions in the South Pacific during World War II. Lieutenant Miller displayed marked ability in maintaining effective communications under difficult conditions and excellent judgment in taking prompt action upon numerous contacts with the enemy. His conduct at all times was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. Prichett (DD-561)

    Action Date:

    May 20 – June 21, 1945

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Lieutenant Commander John Frederick Miller, Jr. (NSN: 0-82571), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. PRICHETT (DD-561) on Radar Picket duty during the Capture of Okinawa Gunto from 20 May 1945 to 21 June 1945. During the entire period of action he led his ship with such courage, skill in combat and determination, that she was able to perform the vital and hazardous duty of Fighter-Director ship on Radar Picket station for a total of nineteen days during which period three enemy planes were destroyed by her combat air patrol and two destroyed and others damaged by her gunfire without casualty to herself or crew. His devotion to duty was an inspiration to his officers and men enabling them to continue their superb performance of duty throughout the long action. His ship in giving timely warning of incoming enemy air attacks and in destroying by combat air patrol or gunfire many of the enemy planes, contributed greatly to the successful outcome of the conquest of Okinawa Gunto.