While commanding Paul Jones, Thebaud was awarded the Navy Cross for rescuing the crew of USS Henderson.

[7] Its final (fourth) edition was again compiled by Thebaud while stationed at the Academy in 1939, and remained a popular leadership guide throughout the Navy until replaced in 1949.

Thebaud was then appointed Flag Aide to Rear Admiral Wat Tyler Cluverius, Jr., Commander Cruiser Division Four, Scouting Force, United States Fleet.

[4][8][9] Upon the United States' entry into World War II, Thebaud once again found himself on escort duty in the North Atlantic.

[10] He later served as Commander, United States Escort Control and Senior Officer Present Afloat, Derry, Northern Ireland, supporting convoy operations.

[4] Afterward, in command of the cruiser USS Boise in the Mediterranean, Thebaud was awarded the Legion of Merit with Combat "V" and the Army Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster for supporting for the Amphibious Battle of Gela during the Invasion of Sicily.