Navy Federal Credit Union

Robert Wilkinson graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1929. He retired as a U.S. Navy Rear Admiral.

Awards Received

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander

    Action Date:

    July 1 – November 21, 1943

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Commander Robert Holden Wilkinson (NSN: 0-62512), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commander of a Destroyer Transport Division operating in the Solomon Islands Area from 1 July to 21 November 1943. Despite the difficulties imposed by the age of his ship, the unfamiliarity of the waters to be navigated and the persistent, severe attacks by all weapons of the enemy, Commander Wilkinson skillfully directed his division in the landing of troops and supplies during the operations against New Georgia, Vella Lavella, Treasury and Bougainville Islands. Under his expert tactical leadership and sound judgment in the face of extremely hazardous conditions, the ships of his command contributed materially to the success of the vital campaigns in these areas.

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander

    Division:

    Transport Division 22

    Action Date:

    July 23 – 24, 1943

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Robert Holden Wilkinson (NSN: 0-62512), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Commander Transport Division TWENTY-TWO, while transporting supplies to the Marine Raiders at Enogai Inlet during the night of 23 – 24 July 1943. During this period Transport Division TWENTY-TWO steamed unhesitatingly and skillfully close aboard the reefs off the coast of New Georgia and unloaded in close proximity to the enemy lines. Commander Wilkinson with cool determination and decisive good judgment completed his difficult mission under gunfire from enemy shore batteries and with the possibility of imminent enemy shore attacks from small enemy surface craft from the nearby Japanese controlled harbors without loss or damage to any ship of his command. His successful accomplishment of his mission provided much needed supplies to the hard-pressed Marine contingent ashore and thereby materially contributed to the ultimate defeat of the Japanese in the area. His gallant fighting spirit and dogged determination was an inspiration to his command. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.