Walter L. Legates

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Walter L. LeGates, Chief Watertender, U.S. Coast Guard, for conspicuous gallantry while serving aboard the USCGC CAMPBELL (WMEC-909) during and following the sinking of an enemy submarine by that vessel on 22 February 1943. When the engine room flooded and the main engines failed as result of the attack upon the hostile ship, Chief Watertender LeGates, laboring throughout the night with neither sleeps nor rest, rendered invaluable assistance to the Assistant Damage Control Officer. His courageous perseverance contributed greatly to the final salvaging of the damaged vessel and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.