Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Commander Robert Messinger Hinckley, Sr., United States Navy, for distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. MacDONOUGH, engaged in the important, exacting and hazardous duty of patrolling the waters infested with enemy submarines and mines, in escorting and protecting vitally important convoys of troops and supplies through these waters, and in offensive and defensive action, vigorously and unremittingly prosecuted against all forms of enemy naval activity during World War I.

Awards Received

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Captain

    Action Date:

    January 26, 1939 – 1945
    Board Serial 3394 (October 15, 1946)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Captain Robert Messinger Hinckley, Sr., United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Deputy Director of the Fleet Maintenance Division Office of the Chief of Naval Operations during the period 26 January 1939 to the present date. Captain Hinckley has exercised brilliant organizing skill and outstanding executive ability in connection with the maintenance and repair of naval vessels in all theaters of war. His clear understanding of the problems this involved, his forceful, aggressive leadership coupled with his tireless and unceasing devotion to his duties throughout in an extremely critical period contributed materially to the progressive success of the war effort.