World War II career

A month prior to the U.S involvement in World War II, Admiral Stark was appointed as Chief of Naval Operations by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. As CNO, Stark was the principal naval advisor and naval executive to the Secretary of the Navy, responsible for the command, resources and efficiency of the Navy forces. Early in his career, Stark had established a reputation as a strict, but fair officer. Stark had recognized the Navy was not ready for war and with the president's approval spearheaded the creation of the Two Ocean Navy Act. It was passed in Congress in July 1940, and provided more than 1.3 million tons of new construction, 70% expansion of the U.S Navy. 

Once the U.S entered the war, the U.S Navy was at war against Germany in the Atlantic to support Great Britain. Stark believed Germany posed greater danger, and opposed any action that would have provoked the Japanese military. He helped create the Combined Chiefs of Staff to coordinate Anglo-American strategy.

In March 1942, Stark was relieved of his position as CNO and was sent to England to remain on active duty as Commander forces for the Europe based U.S navy. Stark's career was marked by some controversy relating to miscommunications that failed to adequately warn Pearl Harbor before the Japanese attack. His command embraced all U.S naval forces assigned to British waters and in the Atlantic coastal waters of Europe. 

Admiral Stark had received various awards and decorations throughout his World War II military career, some including: Distinguished Service U.S Navy, American Defense Service Medal, French Legion of Honor, and American Defense Service Medal. One of the most significant being his Grand Cross Ribbon award. The award is bestowed upon officers who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and bravery in combat or other military operations.

His efforts to strengthen the U.S. Navy before the nation's entry into World War II proved vital to the Allied war effort, and his contributions to the strategy between the United States and Great Britain left a lasting impact on military cooperation. Despite facing criticism for the events surrounding Pearl Harbor, Stark’s leadership in Europe and his many commendations speak to the respect he earned from both American and Allied forces.