Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant Commander

Unit:

U.S.S. England (DE-635), U.S. Navy

Citation:
"For extraordinary heroism in action against the enemy as Commanding Officer of the destroyer escort U.S.S. England (DE-635), while carrying out an anti-submarine patrol in the Bismarck Archipelago area from May 18 to 31, 1944. During this brief period, Lieutenant Commander Pendleton's ship contacted, tracked down and probably destroyed five Japanese submarines and was largely responsible for the probable sinking of a sixth. His outstanding seamanship and skillful direction of the attacks carried out by his vessel contributed materially to the great damage inflicted on the enemy forces. His courage, forceful leadership and aggressive fighting spirit were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."