Navy Federal Credit Union

John Schmidt graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1937. He retired as a U.S. Navy Captain.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Commander

    Division:

    United States Navy Submarine (SS)

    Action Date:

    World War II

    Pacific Fleet Board Awards: Serial 44 (November 23, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander John Sneed Schmidt (NSN: 0-78634), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Assistant Approach Officer aboard a United States Submarine during an aggressive and successful War Patrol against enemy Japanese in the Pacific War Area. With outstanding skill and efficiency, Lieutenant Commander Schmidt rendered invaluable assistance to his Commanding Officer in conducting a series of vigorous raids which resulted in the sinking or damaging of an important amount of hostile shipping. On one occasion, while his ship was under attack by a Japanese destroyer, he calmly and accurately provided firing data which enabled his Commanding Officer to destroy the enemy vessel. His heroic devotion to duty and cool courage under fire were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.