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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Arthur William Newlon, United States Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity in the line of his profession as Gunnery and Torpedo Officer and Torpedo Data Computer Operator of the U.S.S. RASHER (SS-269), during the FOURTH War Patrol of that Submarine in enemy controlled waters from 30 April 1944 to 23 June 1944. He worked unceasingly to maintain the offensive armament of that vessel in the highest state of readiness, and in an admirably cool and courageous manner he aided in controlling the torpedo fire against heavily escorted targets without regard for personal safety. The high standard of his performance of duty was one of the major factors in sinking 24,455 tons of enemy shipping, and damaging 20,931 tons. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to the officers and men in his ship, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Navy and Marine Corps Medal

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant, Junior Grade

    Division:

    U.S.S. Rasher (SS-269)

    Action Date:

    April 30 – June 23, 1944
    Commander 7th Fleet: Serial 02553 (September 21, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Arthur William Newlon, United States Navy, for the performance of a voluntary set of heroism in the face of considerable damage to himself, during the FORTH War Patrol of the U.S.S. RASHER (SS-269) in enemy controlled waters from 30 April 1944 to 23 June 1944. With utter disregard for his personal safety he dove overboard several times to a depth of about twenty-five feet, remaining in the shark-infested waters for a period of over an hour, incident to salvaging a torpedo which was almost lost while it was being transferred from the after torpedo room to the forward room on the surface at night. His courageous and untiring efforts resulted in the recovery of the torpedo and its eventual transfer before daylight. This torpedo was ultimately fired at an enemy freighter of about five thousand tons, making a hit and resulting in its being damaged, and possibly sunk. His conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.