Dudley Walker ("Mush") Morton was born in Owensboro, Ky., 17 July 1907, and graduated from the Naval Academy in 1930. Prior to the beginning of World War II, he served in the Saratoga, Chicago, Canopus, Fairfax, R-5, and S-37. Advanced to the rank of commander 15 October 1942, he assumed command of Wahoo (q.v.) 13 December. Between 26 January 1943 and 9 November, Wahoo was responsible for sinking 19 cargo and transport ships for a combined total of 55,000 tons. Commander Morton was reported missing in action, when his submarine was presumed to be lost in the Sea of Japan, Asiatic area. Declared dead 7 January 1946, Commander Morton had been awarded the Navy Cross, three gold stars in lieu of a second, third, and fourth, Navy Cross, and the Army Distinguished Service Cross in acknowledgement of his outstanding professional skills and excellent judgment.
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