While underway on 19 October, "Whipple" sighted distress signals from Greek steamer "Thetis" and proceeded to the stricken vessel's assistance, as she lay aground off Constanţa. After 10 hours, the destroyer succeeded in freeing "Thetis" from her predicament and earned a commendation from her division commander. The citation lauded Lieutenant Commander Bernard's display of initiative and his excellent handling of the ship in shoal waters with a heavy sea running. "The whole affair," the citation concluded, "... reflected great credit on the "Whipple" and the United States Naval Service."