Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Unit:

U.S.S. Woolsey (DD-437), U.S. Navy

Awarded on:

December 15th, 1944

"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. WOOLSEY (DD-437) prior to and during the amphibious invasion of Southern France in August 1944. Exhibiting great skill and aggressive leadership, Commander Wier brought his ship to a high standard of training and combat readiness for participation in the assault operations. As a unit of the fire support group in action against enemy coastal defenses on the right flank, he approached the hostile shore through mine infested waters and in the face of heavy return fire carried out accurate and vigorous gunfire against enemy installations and concentrations. Over an extended period of time the ship fulfilled many raiding and firing missions both day and night, the effectiveness of which can be attested to by the silencing of enemy batteries and the destruction inflicted on enemy concentrations. His determined and effective conduct of shore bombardment missions contributed materially to the expeditious establishment of the beachhead and the rapid advance of the assault forces in clearing enemy occupied territory. The exceptional ability, cool and deliberate action, and outstanding devotion to duty displayed by Commander Wier were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

Commander 8th Fleet: Serial 5904

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Unit:

U.S.S. Woolsey (DD-437), U.S. Navy

Awarded on:

October 8th, 1944

"For exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. WOOLSEY (DD-437) during an attack on an enemy submarine off Cape Falcon, Algeria, on 16 December 1943. When an Allied convoy was attacked by an enemy submarine shortly before dusk, the U.S.S. WOOLSEY was immediately assigned to an Attack Group formed to search for and destroy the enemy. Commander Wier, exercising great skill and determination, carried out a well planned search during darkness as a unit of this group and established sound contact with the submerged submarine. He promptly launched a depth charge attack with such damaging effect that the submarine was forced to the surface, after which it was destroyed by the accurate and effective gun fire of the U.S.S. TRIPPE and the U.S.S. WOOLSEY, and the survivors taken prisoner. This relentless attack, skillfully executed by Commander Wier, contributed materially to the prevention of further losses to Allied shipping. The able leadership, prompt and decisive action, and outstanding devotion to duty displayed by Commander Wier reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service. (Captain Wier is authorized to wear the Combat "V".)"

Commander 8th Fleet: Serial 5330