Robert Hugh Caldwell, Jr.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert Hugh Caldwell, Jr., Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. PETO (SS-265), on the SEVENTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 29 September 1944 to 6 December 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the East China Sea. A skilled and aggressive leader, Commander Caldwell penetrated strong enemy escort screens to launch repeated strikes against enemy shipping, and by his expert ship handling, contributed materially to the success of the U.S.S. PETE in sinking more than 28,000 tons of enemy shipping and in evading several hostile countermeasures. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Caldwell brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Commander In Chief, Pacific Fleet: Serial 01654 (February 25, 1945)