 Waller was awarded the Distinguished Service Order and Bar , and twice mentioned in despatches , for his achievements in the Mediterranean . He assumed command of HMAS Perth in October 1941 , taking part in the Battle of the Java Sea shortly before his final action in Sunda Strait . He received a third mention in despatches posthumously , and in 2011 came under formal consideration for the award of the Victoria Cross ( VC ) for his performance as Perth 's captain . The submarine HMAS Waller is named in his honour . 
