Robert J. Foley

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Robert J. Foley, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. GATO (SS-212), on the FIFTH and SEVENTH War Patrols of that submarine during the period 19 March 1943 to 10 January 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the Bismarck-New Guinea-Truk areas of the Pacific. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Foley 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.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Navy Cross to Robert J. Foley, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. GATO (SS-212), on the EIGHTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 2 February 1944 to 1 April 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the Bismarck-New Guinea-Truk areas of the Pacific. During this aggressive patrol, Lieutenant Commander Foley delivered smashing torpedo attacks against escorted Japanese shipping and, by the bold and effective use of his deck guns, destroyed four enemy ships, including one heavily armed merchantman. He sank six ships and severely damaged another during this hazardous patrol. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Foley 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.

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 331 (October 1944)

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert J. Foley, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. GATO (SS-212), on the FOURTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 13 January 1943 to 26 February 1943, in enemy controlled waters of the Bismarck-New Guinea-Truk areas of the Pacific. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Foley 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.