In 1986 the center was dedicated to retired Navy Captain Phil H. Bucklew. Inscribed on a bronze plaque is the following: 'Dedicated in honor of Captain Phil H. Bucklew for his heroic and lasting contributions to the inception and permanence of Naval Special Warfare.This center of excellence is a lasting monument to his courage, foresight and leadership.'
Shortly after Pearl Harbor, Bucklew reported for active duty as a Chief Boatswain's Mate and in 1943 received his commission as an Ensign. Serving in both Europe and the Pacific, he was an original member of the U.S. Navy Scouts and Raiders for Special Operations, the forerunners of today's SEALs. It was the mission of the Scouts and Raiders to act as guides for Army assault troops prior to invasion landings by scouting, locating and maintaining a position at a designated beach, hours before a landing.
During his military career, Captain Bucklew was awarded the Navy Cross with a gold star, the Legion of Merit, Silver Star and Joint Service Medal, the Croix De Guerre with Palm (France), the Ulchi Medal (Korea), commendations from the Republic of China and Great Britain, the Navy League Meritorious Citation.
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