BRADBURY, EVERETT VERNON
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Everett Vernon Bradbury (0-350901), Lieutenant, Junior
Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations
against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron EIGHTY-SEVEN (VT-87), embarked from
the U.S.S. TICONDEROGA (CV-14), during an attack on an enemy heavy
cruiser in the Inland Sea of Japan on 28 July 1945. Opposed by intense
and accurate anti-aircraft fire from ships and shore batteries,
Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Bradbury fearlessly and aggressively pressed
home a successful glide-bombing attack, scoring a direct hit on the
enemy cruiser which was subsequently beached to prevent sinking. His
cool skill and bravery in executing this attack in the face of heavy
opposition were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service.
Commander, 2d Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 01896 (September 22, 1945)
BRADDY, ROBERT EDWARD, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Robert Edward Braddy, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S.
Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line
of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S.
BERNADOU (DD-1253), in leading the assault against hostile forces
during the occupation of the harbor of Safi, French Morocco, 8
November 1943. In a remarkable demonstration of seamanship and
resourcefulness, Lieutenant Commander Braddy navigated the Bernadou by
a difficult and hazardous approach through unknown waters into the
crowded harbor where she was beached to allow the immediate landing of
troops. This exceptional feat was accomplished in almost total
darkness while the ship was under the crossfire of three enemy coast
defense batteries and several machine guns mounted on the harbor
jetties without loss of embarked personnel and with only slight damage
to the ship's hull. Lieutenant Commander Braddy's inspiring leadership
and the valiant devotion to duty of his command contributed in large
measure to the outstanding success of these vital missions and reflect
great credit upon the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel
Information Bulletin No. 314 (May 1943)
Born: November 17, 1903 at Bristol, Florida
Home Town: Dublin, Georgia
BRADLEY,
JOHN HENRY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to John Henry Bradley, Pharmacist's Mate Second Class, U.S.
Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to
duty while serving as a Corpsman attached to a Marine Rifle platoon of
the Second Battalion, Twenty-Eighth Marines, FIFTH Marine Division, in
action against enemy Japanese forces at Iwo Jima, on 21 February 1945.
During a furious assault by his company upon a strongly defended enemy
zone at the base of Mt. Suribachi, Pharmacist's Mate Second Class
Bradley observed a Marine infantryman fall wounded in an open area
under a pounding barrage by mortars, interlaced with a merciless
crossfire from Machine guns. With complete disregard for his own
safety, he ran through the intense fire to the side of the fallen
Marine, examined his wounds and ascertained that an immediate
administration of plasma was necessary to save the man's life.
Unwilling to subject any of his comrades to the danger to which he had
so valiantly exposed himself, he signaled would-be assistants to
remain where they were. Placing himself in a position to shield the
wounded man, he tied a plasma unit to a rifle planted upright in the
sand and continued his life saving mission. The Marine's wounds
bandaged and the condition of shock relieved by plasma, Bradley pulled
the man thirty yards through intense enemy fire to a position of
safety. His indomitable spirit, dauntless initiative, and heroic
devotion to duty were an inspiration to those with who he served and
were in keeping with the highest tradition of the United States Naval
Service.
Born: July 10, 1923 at Antigo,
Wisconsin
Home Town: Appleton, Wisconsin
BRADLEY, PHILLIPS HASKELL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Phillips Haskell Bradley (0-290548), Lieutenant, Junior
Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations
against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron TWENTY (VT-20), embarked from the
U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), in action against enemy Japanese forces in
the Philippine Islands during the Battle for Leyte Gulf on 25 October
1944. Undaunted by intense enemy antiaircraft fire, Lieutenant, Junior
Grade, Bradley pressed home vigorous attacks upon an enemy carrier to
score a direct hit upon the hostile vessel and inflict severe damage.
His courage, expert airmanship and unwavering devotion to duty
contributed to the success of his squadron in fulfilling this
dangerous mission and reflect the highest credit upon himself and the
United States Naval Service.
Commander, 1st Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 033 (January 20, 1945)
Home Town: Rockport, Massachusetts
*BRADLEY,
ROBERT GRAHAM (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy
Cross (Posthumously) to Robert Graham Bradley (0-165385), Lieutenant,
U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the
line of his profession while serving on board the Light Aircraft
Carrier U.S.S. PRINCETON (CVL-23), during operations against enemy
Japanese forces in Philippine waters during the Battle of Leyte Gulf
on 24 October 1944. After his ship was hit with a bomb from an enemy
aircraft, Lieutenant Bradley led efforts to control the resulting
fires and explosions until conditions became unbearable and personnel
on the after part of the ship were ordered to leave. He supervised the
safe departure of his men, and he was among the last to leave, and
after being rescued by a destroyer, returned to the ship and continued
to fight fires and control explosions. His courage and skill were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the naval service.
Commander In Chief, Pacific Fleet:
Serial 01453 (November 17, 1944)
Born: September 26, 1921 at Washington, D.C.
Home Town: Arlington, Virginia
BRADLEY, RUSSELL J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Russell J. Bradley, Aviation Radioman Third Class, U.S.
Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while
serving as Radioman and Tail Gunner of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo
Plane in Torpedo Squadron EIGHT (VT-8), embarked from the U.S.S.
HORNET (CV-8), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Solomon
Islands Area on 6 October 1942. On that date Aviation Radioman Third
Class Bradley crashed at sea with the pilot and crew of his airplane;
the pilot and air bomber being injured. Aviation Radioman Third Class
Bradley volunteered to swim ashore and for 8 hours battled strong
currents in shark-infested waters before reaching his destination. His
outstanding courage and determination were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel
Information Bulletin No. 317 (August 1943)
Born: August 31, 1921 at Heavener, Oklahoma
Home Town: Sedalia, Colorado
*BRADLEY, THOMAS WALTER (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy
Cross (Posthumously) to Thomas Walter Bradley (8452991), Pharmacist's
Mate Second Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
conspicuous devotion to duty while serving as a Medical Corpsman
attached to the First Battalion, Twenty-Seventh Marines, FIFTH Marine
Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Iwo Jima, Volcano
Islands, on 4 March 1945. Pharmacist's Mate Second Class Bradley, with
complete disregard for his own personal safety, moved forward of the
front line in the face of a deadly barrage of mortar, artillery and
machine gun fire in order to administer first aid to several wounded
men. Finding one man seriously wounded and needing immediate medical
attention, and knowing that it would be impossible for litter bearers
to get through to the man, he carried the man to a defiladed area.
Ignoring the please of several members of his company not to return to
the front lines, he then returned to the same area and began rendering
first aid to other wounded. By this time the enemy had successfully
outflanked his position and he was subjected to an even heavier and
more intense fire. By using hand grenades he helped the wounded until
he himself became a casualty. By his courage and efforts in behalf of
others at great risk to his own life, Pharmacist's Mate Second Class
Bradley undoubtedly saved many lives, and his steadfast devotion to
duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his
country.
Commander In Chief, Pacific Fleet:
Serial 34921 (April 24, 1945)
Home Town: Sparta, Tennessee
BRADY, JULIAN H
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Julian H Brady (0-283202), Lieutenant, Junior Grade,
U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against
the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane
in Torpedo Squadron SEVEN (VT-7), embarked from the U.S.S. HANCOCK
(CV-19), in action against enemy Japanese forces in Philippine waters
during the Air Battle of Leyte Gulf on 26 October 1944. as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in a torpedo attack, Lieutenant,
Junior Grade, Brady scored a destructive hit on a heavy cruiser of the
Japanese Fleet, which contributed to its probable sinking. In the face
of a severe barrage of anti-aircraft fire and the fast maneuvering of
the target, he displayed outstanding skill and conspicuous unwavering
courage in driving home his attack. His conduct throughout was in
keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: November 11, 1923 at McComb,
Mississippi
Home Town: McComb, Mississippi
BRADY, WALLACE ANTHONY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Wallace Anthony Brady, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S.
Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in
the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of Landing Craft
Infantry Gunboat FOUR HUNDRED FIFTY (LCI(G)-450), operating as a unit
of LCI(G), Group EIGHT, in action against enemy Japanese forces during
the close-in fire support operations against Iwo Jima in the Volcano
Islands on 17 February 1945. Determined to smash Japanese defenses,
Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Brady fearlessly closed range to less than
one thousand yards despite several large caliber hits from hostile
shore batteries which started a serious fire, exploded ready
ammunition aboard the 450 and wounded several of the crew. Firing a
full rocket salvo well on the beach under terrific enemy fire, he
resolutely remained on station and, directing a continuous barrage
from his 40-mm and 20-mm batteries, effectively maintained a
relentless bombardment of the strongly fortified Japanese positions
until recurring fires and explosions aboard his gallantly fighting
ship forced his withdrawal from the field of combat. By his great
personal valor, indomitable fighting spirit and tenacious perseverance
in the face of fanatic opposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Brady
contributed materially to the success of this extremely hazardous
mission and his aggressive leadership throughout the bitter engagement
upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Elroy, Wisconsin
BRANDEL, STUART L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Stuart L. Brandel (0-174133), Lieutenant, Junior Grade,
U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished
service in the line of his profession as Naval Gunfire Liaison Officer
in the assault on the Coast of Normandy, France, on 6 June 1944.
Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Brandel was attached to the SIXTEENTH
Regimental Combat Team and was scheduled to land in the second wave.
The boat in which he was embarked was twice driven off in attempting
to land, and half of Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Brandel's party was
killed or wounded. Quickly grasping the situation, he set up his radio
in the boat and established communications with a supporting cruiser.
He was able to fire several very effective missions at a most critical
juncture. Later he landed and finding his forward observer seriously
wounded, he reorganized his party and took over the duties of forward
observer in addition to his own. Although under heavy enemy gunfire he
continued to call for and adjust fire which was of marked effect on
enemy positions and aided materially in the advance of the army units
to which he was attached. The performance of duty of Lieutenant,
Junior Grade, Brandel on this occasion was in keeping with the best
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
ComNavEu File P15-9: Serial 7511
(September 6, 1944)
Born: July 5, 1919 at Los Angeles, California
Home Town: Los Angeles, California
BRANDON, LEROY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to LeRoy Brandon (6701322), Pharmacist's Mate First Class,
U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous
devotion to duty while serving as a Medical Corpsman aboard the U.S.S.
LST ONE HUNDRED EIGHTY-ONE (LST-181), during military operations
against the enemy at Leyte, Philippine Islands, on 20 October 1944.
When his ship received eleven direct hits from enemy artillery,
igniting two trucks loaded with ammunition, Pharmacist's Mate First
Class Brandon left his station and proceeded to the vicinity of the
fire in an endeavor to reach the wounded, thereby exposing himself to
bursting ammunition and hand grenades. While carrying one of the
casualties away from the fire, he was severely wounded, but in spite
of his injury continued to carry the casualty to the dressing station
until he collapsed from loss of blood. By his courage and efforts in
behalf of others at great risk to his own life, Pharmacist's Mate
First Class Brandon undoubtedly saved many lives, and his steadfast
devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.
Commander, 7th Fleet: Serial 0122
(January 6, 1945)
Born: September 22, 1910 at Merrick, Oklahoma
Home Town: Durant, Oklahoma
*BRANNON, CHARLES E. (MIA-KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy
Cross (Posthumously) to Charles E. Brannon (0-105955), Ensign, U.S.
Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the
enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of
Torpedo Squadron EIGHT (VT-8), embarked from Naval Air Station Midway
during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese
forces on 4 and 5 June 1942. In the first attack against an enemy
carrier of the Japanese invasion fleet, Ensign Brannon pressed home
his attack in the face of withering fire from enemy Japanese fighters
and anti-aircraft forces. Because of events attendant upon the Battle
of Midway, there can be no doubt that he gallantly gave up his life in
the service of his country. His courage and utter disregard for his
own personal safety were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his
country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel
Information Bulletin No. 310 (January 1943)
Born: August 2, 1919 at Montgomery, Alabama
Home Town: Montgomery, Alabama
BRANYON, HOWARD H.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Howard H. Branyon, Chief Boatswain, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action against the enemy
while serving Commander of Patrol Ship YP-239, in the waters between
Tulagi and Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, during the period from 1
September 1942 to 2 November 1942. Chief Boatswain Branyon was in
command of a small auxiliary naval craft used in transporting
essential men and supplies. His craft averaged at least one trip a
day, many of the trips having been made under heavy enemy fire, and at
night, under the most trying circumstances. In spite of the obstacles
and great danger present, Chief Boatswain Branyon carried out his
missions with extreme courage and skill, setting an example to his
command. His unflinching leadership resulted in an uninterrupted flow
of reinforcements and supplies without which the ground troops would
have been greatly hampered. The conduct of Chief Boatswain Branyon
throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel
Information Bulletin No. 317 (August 1943) & 326 (May 1944)
Born: May 13, 1900 at Honey Path, South Carolina
Home Town: Spartanburg, South Carolina
BRASSFIELD, ARTHUR JAMES
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Arthur James Brassfield, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S.
Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while
serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting
Squadron FORTY-TWO (VF-42), embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2),
in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Air Battle of the
Coral Sea from 5 to 8 May 1942. On 5 May while on combat air patrol,
Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Brassfield intercepted and aggressively
attacked an enemy 4-engine patrol bomber, assisting in its rapid
destruction. On 7 May as part of the fighter escort for our scout
bombers in an attack on an enemy carrier, he provided protection
against enemy aircraft throughout the delivery of the attack which
resulted in the sinking of the enemy vessel. On 8 May while on combat
air patrol, he, in company with his wingman, aggressively attacked a
formation of enemy fighters which were harassing his own forces. By
his skillful and courageous action he succeeded in dispersing the
formation and in destroying one of the enemy aircraft. He then braved
strong enemy fighter protection in order to attack and destroy an
enemy dive bomber which was attacking our surface forces. Slightly
wounded and his plane badly damaged, he nevertheless succeeded in
making a safe landing on the carrier after the attacking force had
been driven off. In these engagements he displayed skill, leadership,
aggressiveness and complete disregard of his own safety in order that
he might carry out his assigned missions. His conduct throughout these
actions reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commander In Chief, Pacific Fleet:
Serial 2050 (May 8, 1942)
BRASSFIELD, ARTHUR JAMES
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold
Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Arthur James
Brassfield, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron THREE (VF-3),
embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), during the "Air Battle
of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 June 1942. In
company with four other friendly fighter planes, Lieutenant Brassfield
intercepted a formation of 18 Japanese dive bombers approaching the
YORKTOWN. In the face of fierce opposing fire, he personally destroyed
three of the enemy craft and damaged two others. Later, during the
same action with the enemy, he vigorously attacked and shot down in
flames a Japanese dive bomber which was strafing survivors of a
Torpedo Plane that had made a forced landing. The outstanding courage
and determined skill displayed by Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Brassfield
were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel
Information Bulletin No. 310 (January 1943)
Born: September 21, 1910 at Browning, Missouri
Home Town: Browning, Missouri
Personal Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
BRECKENRIDGE, RICHARD F.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Richard F. Breckenridge, Quartermaster Second Class,
U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action
against the enemy while serving on board the U.S.S. CUTTLEFISH
(SS-171), during the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine in enemy
controlled waters on 27 August 1942. On that date the CUTTLEFISH was
underway in enemy controlled waters when the approach of Japanese
naval units forced her to crash dive. The wheel of the locks for the
hatch leading from the deck to the conning tower became jammed,
however, and the hatch would not close sufficiently to keep out the
seas. Quartermaster Second Class Breckenridge refused to leave his
station and go below until he succeeded in securing the hatch. By his
action, Quartermaster Second Class Breckenridge, risking drowning,
saved the conning tower instruments from damage from the seas and
enabled the submarine to continue on patrol during which 29,500 tons
of Japanese shipping were sunk. The conduct of Quartermaster Second
Class Breckenridge throughout this action reflects great credit upon
himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel
Information Bulletin No. 314 (May 1943)
Born: July 22, 1921 at Tacoma, Washington
Home Town: Tacoma, Washington
BREGA, GIOVANNI F.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Giovanni F. Brega (0-354986), Ensign, U.S. Navy
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy
while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of
Torpedo Squadron EIGHTY-SEVEN (VT-87), embarked from the U.S.S.
TICONDEROGA (CV-14), during a strike against an enemy battleship in
the Inland Sea of Japan on 24 July 1945. Although opposed by intense
and accurate, heavy anti-aircraft fire from enemy warships and
adjacent shore batteries during his attack, Ensign Brega skillfully
and courageously piloted his aircraft in a coordinated bombing attack
on the battleship, scoring a direct hit with his bombs which
contributed greatly to the ultimate sinking of that vessel. His skill
and courage were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.
Commander, 2d Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 01896 (September 22, 1945)
BREHM, HAROLD PAUL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Harold Paul Brehm, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as
Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron
EIGHTY-SEVEN (VB-87), attached to the U.S.S. TICONDEROGA (CV-14), in
action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Kure, Japan,
on 24 July 1945. Braving heavy enemy anti-aircraft fire from the ship
and shore batteries which began during the approach to the target and
continued in intensity throughout the attack and retirement,
Lieutenant Brehm skillfully pressed home his bombing run against the
enemy battleship-aircraft carrier HYUGA, scoring a direct hit with a
1,000-pound bomb and contributing materially to the sinking of the
hostile vessel. His airmanship and unswerving devotion to duty were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
Commander, 2d Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 01812 (September 15, 1945)
BRESLOVE, JOSEPH, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Joseph Breslove, Jr. (0-106282), Lieutenant, U.S. Navy
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy
while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Dive Bomber embarked
from the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in a carrier strike against major units
of the Japanese Fleet at Yokosuka in Tokyo Bay on 18 July 1945.
Lieutenant Breslove skillfully and courageously piloted his aircraft
in a dive bombing attack on an enemy battleship. During this action,
in the face of intense anti-aircraft fire, he scored a direct hit with
his bomb which contributed materially to the damage of the vessel. His
skill and courage were at all times in keeping with the highest
traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
Commander, 2d Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 01702 (September 3, 1945)
BRETT, JAMES HENRY, JR.
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to James Henry Brett, Jr. (0-62017), Lieutenant Commander,
U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy
while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Torpedo Plane and
Commanding Officer of Torpedo Squadron TWO (VT-2), embarked from the
U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2), in action against enemy Japanese forces over
enemy-controlled waters near Lae and Salamaua, New Guinea on 10 March
1942. Lieutenant Commander Brett led his squadron 125 miles over
uncharted mountains and jungles, to press home a successful attack in
the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire against enemy ships, sinking
three of them. Lieutenant Commander Brett's outstanding courage,
daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Fleet:
Serial 6 (April 13, 1942)
BRETT, JAMES HENRY, JR.
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold
Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to James Henry Brett,
Jr. (0-62017), Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane and Commanding Officer of Torpedo
Squadron TWO (VT-2), embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2), in
action against enemy Japanese forces during the Air Battle of the
Coral Sea on 7 and 8 May 1942. In the face of tremendous anti-aircraft
barrage and opposed by numerous fighters, Lieutenant Commander Brett
led his squadron to within extremely close range of the objective and
delivered two highly successful attacks, destroying one enemy Japanese
aircraft carrier and causing the probable destruction of another.
Lieutenant Commander Brett's capable, determined leadership and the
skill and efficiency displayed by his squadron were decisive
contributions to the ultimate victory of our forces in this battle.
His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times
inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel
Information Bulletin No. 307 (October 1942)
Born: October 1, 1905 at Cedartown, Georgia
Home Town: Statesboro, Georgia
Personal Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
*BREWER,
CHARLES WALTER (MIA-KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy
Cross (Posthumously) to Charles Walter Brewer (0-073306), Commander,
U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy
while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane and
Commanding Officer of Fighting Squadron FIFTEEN (VF-15), embarked from
the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against enemy Japanese forces in
the vicinity of the Marianas Islands on 19 June 1944. Commander Brewer
led component parts of his squadron to intercept Japanese airplanes
attempting to reach our fleet and personally accounted for 3 of the 60
enemy planes destroyed. Later, he led the six planes remaining aboard
the ESSEX to Guam and, in the face of overwhelming odds, shot down two
enemy planes and contributed to the destruction or rout of the
remainder. Commander Brewer's outstanding courage, daring airmanship
and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his
country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel
Information Bulletin No. 334 (January 1945)
Born: April 19, 1911 at Clinton, Oklahoma
Home Town: Tulsa, Oklahoma
BRICE, ROBERT GREENLEAF
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Robert Greenleaf Brice (0-263868), Lieutenant, Junior
Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations
against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive
Bomber in Bombing Squadron FIFTEEN (VB-15), embarked from the U.S.S.
ESSEX (CV-9), in action against enemy Japanese surface forces over the
Sibuyan Sea during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands
on 25 October 1944. Fearlessly pressing home his attack to low
altitude in the face of accurate and intense antiaircraft fire from
the formidable enemy disposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Brice
succeeded in scoring a direct hit upon a Japanese aircraft carrier of
ZUIKAKU class, contributing to its rapid sinking. Undaunted in the
face of relentless, devastating antiaircraft fire, he rendered gallant
service during the bitterly fought engagement in which all carriers, a
light cruiser and a destroyer of the enemy's task force were sunk and
heavy bomb and torpedo damage inflicted on battleships and other
important naval units. By his daring airmanship, exceptional courage
and steadfast devotion to duty through a perilous assignment,
Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Brice contributed materially to the sinking
of this valuable enemy fighting unit and upheld the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.
Commander, 2d Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 0682 (December 30, 1944)
BRICE, ROBERT GREENLEAF
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold
Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Robert Greenleaf
Brice (0-263868), Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as
Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron FIFTEEN
(VB-15), embarked from the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), during offensive air
operations against enemy shipping on 5 November 1944, in Manila Bay in
the Island of Luzon of the Philippine Group. On this occasion, in the
face of intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire, Lieutenant, Junior
Grade, Brice courageously pressed an attack upon an enemy heavy
cruiser of the NACHI Class. He made a direct hit upon this target
which together with other hits in subsequent attacks led to the
sinking of the vessel. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Brice's outstanding
courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commander, 2d Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 0682 (December 30, 1944)
Born: April 9, 1920 at Chicago, Illinois
Home Town: Chicago, Illinois
Personal Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
BRIDGERS, JOHN DAVID
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to John David Bridgers (0-104530), Lieutenant, U.S. Navy
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy
while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Scout Dive Bomber and
Division Leader in Bombing Squadron FIFTEEN (VB-15), embarked from the
U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against enemy Japanese surface forces
in the vicinity of the Philippine Islands during the Battle of Leyte
Gulf on 25 October 1944. In command of fourteen airplanes Lieutenant
Bridgers initiated the strike upon the enemy disposition and
coordinated his dives perfectly with other attacking aircraft. In the
face of intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire from the entire enemy
formation, he obtained one of eight direct hits upon a carrier of the
CHITOSE class. As leader of the dive bomber group, he so effectively
disposed his aircraft that the resulting successive hits upon this
ship caused it's almost immediate sinking. Undaunted in the face of
relentless, devastating antiaircraft fire, he rendered gallant service
during the bitterly fought engagement in which all carriers, a light
cruiser and a destroyer of the enemy's task force were sunk and heavy
bomb and torpedo damage inflicted on battleships and other important
naval units. By his daring airmanship, exceptional courage and
steadfast devotion to duty through a perilous assignment, Lieutenant
Bridgers contributed materially to the sinking of this valuable enemy
fighting unit and upheld the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.
Commander, 2d Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 0485 (February 7, 1945)
Born: July 4, 1920 at Kinston, North Carolina
Home Town: Greenville, North Carolina
BRIDGES, ROBERT ARTHUR
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Robert Arthur Bridges (4124263), Boatswain's Mate First
Class, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to
duty in action against the enemy while serving as a Member of an LCT
Scout Boat during the amphibious assault on the Normandy Coast of
France on 6 June 1944. Boatswain's Mate First Class Bridges, with
disregard for his own safety, worked tirelessly in an effort to unload
vehicles and personnel from a United States Landing Craft Tank,
exposing himself in so doing to heavy machine gun and artillery fire.
He further displayed heroism when, after assisting in the evacuation
of the wounded from his own ship, he boarded another Landing Craft
Tank and manned a twenty-millimeter gun to engage an enemy machine-gun
nest, enabling soldiers to move forward on the beach without
opposition from this emplacement. The outstanding courage and
initiative displayed by Boatswain's Mate First Class Bridges on this
occasion were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.
Commander, Naval Forces, Europe:
Serial 7517 (September 6, 1944)
Born: July 15, 1919 at White Bluff, Washington
Home Town: Wilmington, California
BRIDGET, FRANCIS JOSEPH (POW-KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Francis Joseph Bridget (0-19086), Commander, U.S. Navy,
for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his
profession while serving on the Staff of the Commander of Patrol Wing
TEN (PatWing 10), during operations against enemy Japanese forces in
the Mariveles Area in December 1941. Although subjected to repeated
and sustained enemy aerial attacks, Commander Bridget rendered
outstanding services under the extremely hazardous and difficult
conditions existing in that area. His skillful leadership and complete
disregard for his own personal safety were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: August 2, 1897 at Washington,
D.C.
Home Town: South Orange, New Jersey
*BRIGHT, MARK KENNETH (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy
Cross (Posthumously) to Mark Kenneth Bright (0-103989), Lieutenant,
Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based
Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron FIVE (VF-5), embarked from the
U.S.S. SARATOGA (CV-3), in action against enemy Japanese forces while
deployed over Guadalcanal and Tulagi, in the Solomon Islands, on 7
August 1942. Upon sighting an enemy force of eleven dive bombers about
to enter upon a diving attack against transports and other surface
vessels, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Bright played an important role in
an attack upon them which resulted in the destruction of nine of them,
thereby breaking up the enemy attack and preventing the enemy from
registering any hits upon their targets. He personally shot down two
of the enemy bombers, one of them while in its dive before its bombs
had been released. He also assisted in destroying two other planes
which crashed under the combined fire of his guns and those of other
friendly pilots. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the
highest traditions of the Naval Service.
Commander In Chief, Pacific Fleet:
Serial 28 (1943)
Born: February 8, 1919 at Lodi, California
Home Town: Anderson, Indiana
Personal Awards: Navy Cross (WWII), Distinguished Flying Cross, 5@ Air
Medals, Purple Heart
BRINGLE,
WILLIAM F.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to William F. Bringle, Commander [then Lieutenant
Commander], U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against
the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane
and Commanding Officer Of Observation Fighting Squadron ONE (VOF-1),
embarked from the U.S.S. TULAGI (CVE-72), in action against enemy
forces during the Allied invasion of southern France on 20 August
1944. Commander Bringle led his flight of eight planes against a
hostile motorized concentration and skillfully maneuvered his group
for maximum striking power and, pressing home his attacks with skill
in the face of powerful anti-aircraft fire, contributed materially to
the infliction of damage and destruction on seventy-five enemy motor
vehicles. Leading a second strike against six heavily armed enemy
trawlers in the Marseilles Area later the same day, he struck
repeatedly at his target to assist in the beaching of four and the
crippling of two additional enemy vessels. Fearlessly exposing himself
to enemy antiaircraft fire which damaged his plane and forced him to
land in the water on 25 August Commander Bringle continued to relay
vital information to our forces regarding the fall of shot in the
vicinity of three important hostile coastal batteries and, by his
courageous efforts in the face of grave personal danger, contributed
directly to the subsequent neutralization of these enemy emplacements.
By his airmanship, initiative and devotion to duty throughout,
Commander Bringle upheld the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.
Born: April 23, 1913 at Covington,
Tennessee
Home Town: Memphis, Tennessee
BRISCOE, ROBERT PEARCE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Robert Pearce Briscoe (0-34560), Captain, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his
profession as Commanding Officer of the Light Cruiser U.S.S. DENVER
(CL-58), during a 36-hour period from midnight 30 October 1943 to noon
2 November 1943. During this period Task Force 39 of which the U.S.S.
DENVER was a unit, conducted the first daylight bombardment of the
Shortland-Faisi-Ballale Area while subjected to heavy enemy shore
battery fire and bombing attacks. The Task Force of which the U.S.S.
DENVER was a member, further, decisively defeated in night action, a
heavier gunned enemy surface force composed of at least 4 cruisers, of
which two were 8-inch cruisers, and 8 destroyers of which at least 1
cruiser and 4 destroyers were sunk and the remainder put to
ignominious flight towards their bases with 2 cruisers and 2
destroyers heavily damaged and under hot pursuit by our forces. This
defeat prevented the Japanese Task Force from bombarding our beachhead
at Empress Augusta Bay, and destroying our transport and mine laying
groups and thereby materially contributed to the successful
establishment of our land and air forces in the Bougainville Island.
The Task Force successfully fought off a heavy air attack by at least
67 Japanese dive and medium bombers with the destruction of at least
17 Japanese planes by the ship's anti-aircraft gunfire. During these
actions the U.S.S. DENVER received only negligible damage while
inflicting severe damage and casualties to the enemy. By his
fearlessness, calmness, and gallant determination on the exposed
bridge of his ship Captain Briscoe set an example of conduct under
stress of battle that was an inspiration. His relentless fighting
spirit and devotion to duty, maintained at great risk in the face of
grave personal danger was in keeping with the highest traditions of
the Naval Service.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Fleet:
Serial 01533 (February 7, 1945)
Born: February 19, 1897 at Centreville, Mississippi
Home Town: Liberty, Mississippi
BRISTOW, JESSE M.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Jesse M. Bristow (0-156763), Lieutenant, Junior Grade,
U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against
the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber
in Bombing Squadron SEVENTEEN (VB-17), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET
(CV-12), in an attack on an enemy task force comprised of a
battleship, cruisers and destroyers in the East China Sea on 7 April
1945. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Bristow dove on the battleship through
extremely intense anti-aircraft fire, and scored a direct hit with his
bomb, contributing materially to the sinking of the vessel as a result
of the attack. His skill and courage were at all times in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commander, 1st Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 0510 (May 4, 1945)
Born: August 16, 1917 at St. Louis, Missouri
Home Town: University City, Missouri
BRITSON, RICHARD EARL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Richard Earl Britson, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve),
for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while
serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting
Squadron EIGHTY-TWO (VF-82), attached to the U.S.S. BENNINGTON
(CV-20), in action against major units of the enemy Japanese Fleet and
against Naval installations in the Japanese Inland Sea, on 19 March
1945. Escorting bomber and torpedo aircraft in a coordinated strike on
the target, Lieutenant Britson pressed home a determined bombing and
strafing attack on an enemy battleship and accompanying destroyers
and, scoring a direct hit, seriously damaged the battleship. His
inspiring leadership and devotion to the fulfillment of a hazardous
mission were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.
Commander, 1st Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 0592 (July 4, 1945)
BROACH, JOHN C.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to John C. Broach, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism
in the line of his profession as
Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. HAKE (SS-256), on the THIRD War
Patrol of that submarine during the period 27 December 1943 to 21
February 1943, in enemy controlled waters. Commander Broach
courageously and skillfully maneuvered his vessel into position from
which to strike the enemy and aggressively attacked in the face of
heavy and persistent enemy counter measures, sinking three enemy
vessels totaling 16,472 tons and damaging an additional three vessels
totaling 18,000 tons. Further, he sank one sampan and sloop by
gunfire. He handled his ship expertly to avoid damage from enemy
countermeasures and brought her safely to port without injury to ship
or crew. His actions and conduct were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Commander, 7th Fleet: Serial 01052
(May 7, 1944)
Born: July 29, 1904 at New Orleans, Louisiana
Home Town: Mobile, Alabama
BROACH, LEO DENSEL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Leo Densel Broach (0-173735), Lieutenant, Junior Grade,
U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against
the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scout Dive
Bomber in Bombing Squadron THIRTEEN (VB-13), embarked from the U.S.S.
FRANKLIN (CV-13), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the
Sibuyan Sea during the Air Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. In
the face of continuous and intense anti-aircraft fire and enemy air
opposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Broach pressed home a determined
dive bombing attack on a hostile aircraft carrier and, accurately
releasing his bomb load at perilously low altitude, scored a direct
hit which contributed to its sinking. By his superb flying ability,
indomitable fighting spirit and cool courage, maintained at great
personal risk, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Broach contributed
immeasurably to the extensive and costly damage inflicted on the
Japanese fleet in this vital war area. His conduct throughout this
action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commander, 2d Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 0768 (January 4, 1945)
Born: November 24, 1922 at Schlater, Mississippi
Home Town: Webb, Mississippi
BROCATO, SAMUEL JOSEPH, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Samuel Joseph Brocato, Jr., Lieutenant, Junior Grade,
U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against
the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane
and Wing Man on the Leader of two Fighter Planes in Fighting Squadron
EIGHTY-THREE (VF-83), embarked from the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action
against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Okinawa on 6 April
1945. Maintaining a vigorous combat air patrol over our Task Force
operating in this dangerous area, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Brocato
initiated an attack against nine hostile fighter planes and personally
succeeded in destroying four of them. By his gallant fighting spirit
and devotion to duty in the face of greatly superior numbers, he
contributed materially to the success of our operations and upheld the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commander, 1st Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 0960 (July 6, 1945)
*BROCK, JOHN WILEY (MIA-KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy
Cross (Posthumously) to John Wiley Brock (0-146504), Ensign, U.S.
Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while
serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo
Squadron SIX (VT-6), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6),
during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese
forces on 4 June 1942. Participating in a vigorous and intensive
assault against the Japanese invasion fleet, Ensign Brock pressed home
his attack with relentless determination in the face of a terrific
barrage of anti-aircraft fire. The unprecedented conditions under
which his squadron launched its offensive were so exceptional that it
is highly improbably the occasion may ever recur where other pilots of
the service will be called upon to demonstrate an equal degree of
gallantry and fortitude. His extreme disregard of personal safety
contributed materially to the success of our forces and his loyal
conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Commander In Chief, Pacific Fleet:
Serial 3144 (August 1, 1942)
Born: August 15, 1914 at New Brockton, Alabama
Home Town: Montgomery, Alabama
BROCK, ROBERT LEE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Robert Lee Brock (3371073), Machinist's Mate Second
Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while
serving as a Machine Gunner on board the Minesweeper U.S.S. HERON
(AM-10), in action against the enemy during operations in Dutch East
Indies on 31 December 1941 when his ship was attacked by 15 hostile
planes of different types. With extreme disregard of personal safety,
Machinist's Mate Second Class Brock returned to his action station
while bombs were falling near the ship and after the force of a bomb
explosion had thrown him from the after machine gun platform to the
main deck below. During protracted air attacks delivered against the
U.S.S. HERON on 31 December 1941 in the Dutch East Indies, the ship
being attacked by an overwhelming number of enemy aircraft of various
types using bombs and torpedoes, Machinist's Mate Second Class Brock
discharged his duties as After .50 Caliber Machine Gun Captain in a
most efficient and commendable manner. Such action contributed not
only to the survival of the ship but also to the fact that effective
losses were sustained by the enemy aircraft. His conduct throughout
was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United
States.
Commander in Chief, Asiatic Fleet:
(January 23, 1942)
Born: December 23, 1917 at DuQuoin, Illinois
Home Town: DuQuoin, Illinois
BROCKMAN,
WILLIAM HERMAN, JR.
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to William Herman Brockman, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S.
Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line
of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. NAUTILUS
(SS-168), in the Battle of Midway. On 4 June 1942, Lieutenant
Commander Brockman aggressively developed a contact with major enemy
forces and doggedly pushed home a torpedo attack on a screened
aircraft carrier against determined and repeated enemy counter
measures by gunfire barrage, depth charging and bombing from the air.
The attack culminated successfully and Lieutenant Commander Brockman
is credited with closing and sinking of a 10,000 ton enemy aircraft
carrier. His skill, determination, courage and fortitude were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the Naval Service.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Fleet:
Serial 3277 (August 16, 1942)
BROCKMAN, WILLIAM HERMAN, JR.
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold
Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to William Herman
Brockman, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism
in the line of his profession as
Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. NAUTILUS (SS-168), on the FIRST War
Patrol of that submarine from 10 June 1942 to 11 July 1942, in the
Southwest Pacific. During a period of eleven days, while on station
patrolling in enemy controlled waters, Lieutenant Commander Brockman
delivered five attacks against the enemy and, in spite of having been
driven down on three occasions, the NAUTILUS succeeded in sinking a
1,700-ton enemy Japanese destroyer and a 1,500-ton patrol vessel.
Although severe anti-submarine measures had caused considerable
material damage, Lieutenant Commander Brockman's extreme courage and
expert seamanship enabled him to bring his ship and crew home safely
without loss or injury, and his conduct throughout the performance of
a difficult and dangerous mission was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 22 (October
23, 1942)
BROCKMAN, WILLIAM HERMAN, JR.
(Third Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a
Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Navy Cross to William
Herman Brockman, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism
in the line of his
profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. NAUTILUS (SS-168),
during the FOURTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 13
December 1942 to 4 February 1943, in Japanese waters. Lieutenant
Commander Brockman maneuvered his submarine close enough to Japan's
shores for the crew to watch people swimming in the surf. His craft
was credited with sinking a 10,000-ton enemy aircraft carrier, a
9,000-ton transport, and seven other enemy vessels. His skill,
determination, courage and fortitude were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel
Information Bulletin No. 319 (October 1943)
Born: November 18, 1904 at Baltimore, Maryland
Home Town: Groton, Connecticut
Personal Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
BRODHEAD, JOHN, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to John Brodhead, Jr. (0-99860), Lieutenant, U.S. Navy
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy
while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scout Dive Bomber and
Division Leader in Bombing Squadron FIFTEEN (VB-15), embarked from the
U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against enemy Japanese surface forces
over the Sibuyan Sea during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the
Philippine Islands on 25 October 1944. Fearlessly leading fourteen
planes of his squadron, Lieutenant Brodhead pressed home a determined
attack in the face of extremely intense and accurate anti-aircraft
fire on an enemy battleship of the ISE class, personally scoring a
direct hit. Coordinating with other type planes, he maneuvered his
group into excellent position for attack, which resulted in several
other damaging hits on the target. Lieutenant Brodhead's outstanding
courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commander, 2d Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 0485 (December 19, 1944)
Born: December 6, 1917 at Springfield, Illinois
Home Town: St. Louis, Missouri
BRODIE, ROBERT J., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Robert J. Brodie, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy,
for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his
profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. DALLAS
(DD-199), in action against hostile forces during the occupation of
Port Lyautey, French Morocco, on 10 November 1942. In a remarkable
demonstration of seamanship and resourcefulness, Lieutenant Commander
Brodie, proceeding with a detachment of raider troops across a
treacherous bar through heavy surf, entered the shallow Sebou River
and by breaking a steel cable boom with the bow of his ship, forced
his way, often literally ploughing through mud, ten miles up the river
where he landed the raider troops at Port Lyautey airfield.
Born: December 2, 1904 at Owensboro,
Kentucky
Home Town: Owensboro, Kentucky
*BRODY, ALLEN (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy
Cross (Posthumously) to Allen Brody (0-), Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve),
for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while
serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Bomber, while
participating in an aerial torpedo attack against a Japanese task
force on 25 October 1944, in the Philippine Sea. Ensign Brody pressed
home his attack in the face of intense and heavy anti-aircraft fire
from the battleships and escorting cruisers and destroyers. He scored
a direct hit on a Japanese battleship inflicting thereby material
damage to a major fleet unit. This attack was made in conjunction with
six other Torpedo Planes without benefit of diversionary bombing or
strafing by our forces. His conduct, achievement, and disregard of
personal safety was in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
Commander, 2d Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 0603 (December 23, 1945)
Born: February 28, 1921 at Brooklyn, New York
Home Town: Jamaica, New York
BRONN, CLYDE LEROY
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Clyde Leroy Bronn (0-130142), Lieutenant, Junior Grade,
U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against
the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane
embarked from the U.S.S. RANDOLPH (CV-15), in the vicinity of the
Marianas Islands, on 20 June 1944. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Bronn
flew in an attack to the limit of endurance against the enemy main
fleet where he pressed home his attack through most intense
anti-aircraft fire and fighter plane opposition, personally scoring
three direct bomb hits immediately forward of the starboard beam on a
large enemy aircraft carrier which eventually sank. Upon completion of
this most successful attack he returned to his Task Group under most
hazardous conditions and was obliged to make a night water landing.
His mission was accomplished without loss of any personnel. His
courage and skill above and beyond the call of duty were at all times
in keeping with the highest traditions of the Naval Service.
Commander, Fast Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 0362 (July 8, 1944)
BRONN, CLYDE LEROY
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold
Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Clyde Leroy Bronn,
Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Plane, in action on 24 July 1944, while deployed
over the Inland Sea of Japan. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Bronn's
outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
Born: December 7, 1921 at Roca,
Nebraska
Home Town: Long Beach, California
Personal Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
*BROOKE, GEORGE MAGRUDER (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy
Cross (Posthumously) to George Magruder Brooke (0-34000), Commander,
U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the
line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the River Gunboat
U.S.S. LUZON (PR-7), during the periods 7 to 22 December 1941, and
from 30 December 1941 to 28 April 1942, in the Philippine Islands.
While exposed to frequent horizontal and dive bombing attacks by enemy
Japanese air forces, Commander Brooke directed the anti-aircraft
batteries of his ship and conducted operations of strategic important
involving hazardous missions such as to bring great credit to his
command and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his
country.
Commandant, 16th Naval District,
Desp 281200-NCR-7859 (April 29, 1942)
Born: March 15, 1898 at Spokane, Washington
Home Town: Spokane, Washington
BROOKES, CHARLES S.
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Charles S. Brookes (0-125277), Lieutenant, U.S. Navy,
for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while
serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo
Squadron SIXTEEN (VT-16), attached to the U.S.S. RANDOLPH, during
action against major units of the Japanese Fleet at the Kure Naval
Base in the Inland Sea of Japan the morning of 24 July 1945. Gallantly
leading his fourteen-plane flight in over the target area in bold
defiance of a withering hail of antiaircraft fire set up from powerful
guns on shore and ships in the harbor, Lieutenant Brookes skillfully
maneuvered for maximum striking power and, diving relentlessly through
the shattering barrage, released his bomb load at perilously low
altitude to score a direct hit and two near misses on a Japanese
battleship carrier. By his superb airmanship, aggressive determination
and indomitable spirit, maintained in the face of tremendous odds,
Lieutenant Brookes contributed materially to the sinking of a vital
hostile Fleet unit and to the success of our aerial offensive against
the Japanese homeland. His valiant devotion to duty throughout the
fierce action reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United
States Naval Service.
Commander, 2d Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 01849 (September 17, 1945)
BROOKES, CHARLES S.
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold
Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Charles S. Brookes
(0-125277), Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based
Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron SIXTEEN (VT-16), embarked from
the U.S.S. RANDOLPH (CV-15), in action against the enemy over Kure
Harbor, Japan, on 24 July 1945. Lieutenant Brookes' outstanding
courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Personal Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses
(WWII)
*BROOKS, BRADFORD MAITLAND (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy
Cross (Posthumously) to Bradford Maitland Brooks (0-83929), Lieutenant
Commander, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Commander of a Navy
Patrol Plane of Patrol-Bombing Squadron ONE HUNDRED SEVENTEEN
(VPB-117). Lieutenant Commander Brooks, on 10 December 1944, as Patrol
Plane Commander of a Navy Search Liberator, with fearless
determination pressed home the war against the enemies of the United
States, causing the destruction of three enemy aircraft in aerial
combat. Because he had flown his lone plane on many long, grueling
missions deep into enemy territory, often under the most hazardous
conditions and in the face of enemy fire, his deep devotion to duty
was inspiring. Having destroyed two enemy fighters, though severely
wounded he continued to fight until his plane was so badly crippled
that it would no longer remain in the air. Then, with his instrument
panel shattered, three engines shot out, and the right rudder control
useless, he landed without flaps with such superb skill that the lives
of the majority of his crew were saved. His actions on this occasion
showed the highest degree of professional skill, heroic courage under
fire and determined devotion to duty, and were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Commander, VPB-117: Serial 0184
(February 9, 1945)
Home Town: Pacific Beach, California
BROOKS, WILLIAM COSTELLO, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to William Costello Brooks, Jr., Ensign, U.S. Navy
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy
while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in
Composite Squadron SIXTY-FIVE (VC-65), embarked from the U.S.S. ST. LO
(CVE-63), during action against major Japanese forces during the
Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. In the face of intense
antiaircraft fire, Ensign Brooks pressed home two attacks against the
enemy. He single-handedly attacked a heavy cruiser with depth bombs
and, subsequently participating in a three-plane torpedo attack,
scored a direct hit on an enemy battleship. His courage and devotion
to duty reflect the highest credit upon Lieutenant, Junior Grade,
Brooks and the United States Naval Service.
Born: February 13, 1920 at Alhambra,
California
Home Town: Los Angeles, California
BROWDER, MAURICE E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Maurice E. Browder (0-56001), Captain, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his
profession as Commanding Officer of the Escort Carrier U.S.S. SANGAMON
(CVE-26). Captain Browder was engaged in furnishing air support to
amphibious attack groups landing on the shores of Leyte Gulf,
Philippine Islands, from 18 to 29 October 1944. On 25 October 1944,
while his ship was under almost constant air attack from suicide dive
bombers, he repeatedly launched flight after flight against the enemy
fleet approaching Leyte Gulf. These planes damaged the enemy ships and
contributed to their turning away from this, the Battle of Samar
Island. During this period he fought his ship so skillfully that only
minor damage was received from repeated enemy air attacks. His conduct
was in accordance with the highest traditions of the Navy of the
United States.
Commander, 7th Fleet: Serial 0193
(January 19, 1945)
Born: October 22, 1897 at Indianapolis, Indiana
Home Town: Indianapolis, Indiana
*BROWN, BURTON JAMES (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy
Cross (Posthumously) to Burton James Brown (0-389399), Ensign, U.S.
Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line
of his profession as Machine Gun Control Officer on board the
Destroyer U.S.S. PORTERFIELD (DD-682), in action against the enemy
during a night surface engagement on 26 February 1945, in the Pacific
off the South East Coast of Japan. With the utmost disregard for his
own personal safety, Ensign Brown refused to seek shelter from the
intense enemy fire directed against the area in which he was
controlling the battery, but remained fully exposed at all times. By
his outstanding and courageous action he set an example that inspired
not only his entire battery but all personnel aboard. His skill and
courage were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service.
Commander In Chief, Pacific Fleet:
Serial 032079 (March 12, 1945)
Home Town: Conneautville, Pennsylvania
BROWN, CARL ALLEN, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Carl Allen Brown, Jr., Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as
Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron
TWENTY-SEVEN (VF-27), attached to the U.S.S. PRINCETON (CVL-24), in
action against enemy Japanese Forces during the Battle for Leyte Gulf,
24 October 1944. Skilled and aggressive in combat, Lieutenant
Commander Brown participated in the interception of a large group of
enemy planes attempting to attack our Task Force and pressed home his
attack to shoot down five enemy planes and to inflict severe damage on
an other. His high combat efficiency, courage and devotion to duty
were instrumental in preventing damage to our ships and were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
Born: July 24, 1917 at Texarkana,
Arkansas
Home Town: Texarkana, Texas
BROWN, CHARLES DONALD
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Charles Donald Brown (0-81305), Lieutenant Commander,
U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in
the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S.
RAZORBACK (SS-394), on the SECOND War Patrol of that submarine during
the period 15 November 1944 to 15 January 1945, in enemy controlled
waters. With outstanding skill and aggressiveness, Lieutenant
Commander Brown launched brilliantly planned and smartly executed
torpedo attacks which resulted in sinking over 20,000 tons of enemy
shipping, and damaging an additional 5,000 tons. Through his
experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Brown brought his
ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to
his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Fleet:
Serial 01876 (March 4, 1945)
Born: April 11, 1914 at Rhinelander, Wisconsin
Home Town: Rutherford, New Jersey
*BROWN, GEORGE PETER (MIA-KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy
Cross (Posthumously) to George Peter Brown (0-125605), Lieutenant,
Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based
Navy Torpedo Plane and Division Leader of a Flight of Torpedo Squadron
TWENTY-FOUR (VT-24), embarked from the U.S.S. BELLEAU WOOD (CVL-24), n
action against major units of the Japanese fleet west of the Marianas
Islands during the first Battle of the Philippine Sea, on 20 June
1944. With great skill, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Brown maneuvered his
division into position and led it down against an enemy carrier,
launching his torpedo from close range to score a confirmed hit in the
face of heavy, accurate anti-aircraft fire, which was concentrated
upon him as leader, and which inflicted severe damage to his plane,
forcing his crew to abandon him, and wounding him severely. His
attack, in conjunction with others, resulted in the sinking of the
enemy vessel. His determined leadership, and outstanding courage were
an inspiring example and were at all times thoroughly in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commander In Chief, Pacific Fleet:
Serial 03949 (August 13, 1944)
Born: November 1, 1918 at Lockport, New York
Home Town: Rochester, New York
Personal Awards: Navy Cross (WWII), 2@ Air Medals, Purple Heart
BROWN, JACK PERSHING
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Jack Pershing Brown (2954073), Chief Electrician's Mate,
U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while
serving as Switchboard Operator in the Forward Distribution Room
aboard the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2), in action
following the attack on that carrier during the Battle of the Coral
Sea on 8 May 1942. Assisting in the evacuation of wounded, Chief
Electrician's Mate Brown disregarded a head injury sustained from an
explosion and carried on in the face of subsequent danger of total
asphyxiation. Obtaining a spare gas mask and returning to his post, he
was successful in the removal of two of his wounded shipmates to
safety. His courageous conduct and strict devotion to duty were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
Commander In Chief, Pacific Fleet:
Serial 2828 (June 29, 1942)
Born: May 20, 1919 at Bassett, Arkansas
Home Town: Bassett, Arkansas
BROWN, JAMES HARVEY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to James Harvey Brown, Commander, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of this
profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. AMMEN
(DD-527), in action against enemy Japanese forces during a long period
of hazardous radar picket duty in the vicinity of Okinawa from 20
April to 29 May 1945. In a situation unique in Naval warfare,
Commander Brown aggressively fought his ship during twenty-seven
engagements with attacking enemy aircraft and, skillfully carrying out
defensive maneuvers, escaped with minor damage to his ship despite
three plane crashes close aboard. With his vessel acting as a fighter
director ship during much of this time, he contributed materially to
the destruction of seven additional hostile aircraft by planes of our
combat air patrol. By his inspiring leadership, Commander Brown kept
his command ready for enemy attack day and night and, despite the
tremendous mental strain on himself and his men, ably accomplished his
assigned mission of providing early warning of enemy air attack to the
main body of our Fleet. His gallant fighting spirit and unwavering
devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
Born: December 17, 1912 at
Chamberlain, South Dakota
*BROWN, MORRISON R. (MIA-KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy
Cross (Posthumously) to Morrison R. Brown (0-101070), Lieutenant, U.S.
Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in
the line of his profession as Engineering Officer aboard the Destroyer
U.S.S. BORIE (DD-215), when that vessel attacked and sank an enemy
submarine in the waters of the Caribbean Sea on the morning of 1
November 1943. To keep the engines of the BORIE operative in order to
complete her mission, despite serious damage sustained during the
prolonged battle, Lieutenant Brown remained steadfastly at his post,
buffeted by debris in the heavy rolling of the vessel and with water
pouring into the forward engine room. As the flooding increased and
the compartment became untenable, he calmly ordered his men to safety
while he stayed below, standing neck-deep in water at the throttle
until the BORIE had completely destroyed the submarine. The conduct of
Lieutenant Brown throughout this action reflects great credit upon
himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel
Information Bulletin No. 325 (April 1944)
Born: October 12, 1916 at Swampscott, Massachusetts
Home Town: Miami Beach, Florida
BROWN, RUSSELL E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Russell E. Brown (0-306443), Ensign, U.S. Navy
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy
while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane in
Composite Squadron SEVENTY-SIX (VC-76), embarked from the U.S.S.
PETROF BAY (CVE-80), in action against enemy Japanese forces near the
Island of Leyte, Central Philippine Islands, during the Battle of
Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. Ensign Brown, as one of a flight of six
fighter-plane pilots, boldly attacked a large task force of the
Japanese Imperial Navy in a strike made without the aid of surface
craft and in the face of an intense barrage of anti-aircraft fire. The
smallness of their numbers rendered each plane a conspicuous target,
yet despite the overwhelming odds, Ensign Brown lashed the enemy force
with grim determination and with utter disregard for his personal
safety. The strike, in which he participated so valiantly, resulted in
diverting an enormous quantity of anti-aircraft fire that would have
been hurled at the Torpedo Planes which followed. His action greatly
enhanced the success of the torpedo attacks in which severe damage was
inflicted upon capital ships of the Japanese Imperial Navy, and
materially contributed to the retreat of the enemy fleet. His conduct
throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of
the United States.
Commander, 7th Fleet: Serial 0845
(February 22, 1945)
Born: July 30, 1922 at Cambridge, Massachusetts
Home Town: Cambridge, Massachusetts
BROWN, THOMAS E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Thomas E. Brown (0-104355), Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve),
for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while
serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing
Squadron FIVE (VB-5), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in a
dive bombing attack on an enemy carrier during the Air Battle of the
Coral Sea on 7 May 1942. This attack, pressed home in the face of
heavy anti- aircraft fire, resulted in sinking of the carrier. His
gallant conduct greatly contributed to the success of our forces in
the Battle of the Coral Sea. His outstanding courage and determined
skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Fleet:
Serial 2885 (July 7, 1942)
Born: December 7, 1920 at Richton, Mississippi
Home Town: Jackson, Alabama
BROWN, THOMAS MARKHAM
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Thomas Markham Brown (0-59401), Lieutenant Commander,
U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the
line of his profession as Gunnery Officer aboard the Fleet Oiler
U.S.S. NEOSHO (AO-23), when that ship was attacked by Japanese
aircraft in the Coral Sea on 7 May 1942, and as acting Executive
Officer during the trying days when she was in a sinking condition.
His conspicuous courage and resourcefulness during the engagement was
directly responsible for the destruction of three enemy planes and the
damaging of at least four others. In the days subsequent to the
attack, when preparations were being made to abandon ship, he assumed
and performed the duties of Executive Officer in a thorough and
efficient manner. His conduct was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the Naval Service.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Fleet:
Serial 02601 (August 27, 1942)
Born: March 7, 1905 at Cleveland, Ohio
Home Town: Cleveland, Ohio
BROWNE, GEORGE H.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to George H. Browne, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism
in the line of his
profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SNOOK (SS-279), on the
SEVENTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 6 September
1944 to 18 November 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the Pacific
War Area. By a series of aggressive and well-executed attacks,
Commander Browne sank enemy ships totaling over 20,000 tons and
damaged additional vessels for a total of over 8,000 tons. Through his
experience and sound judgment Commander Browne brought his ship safely
back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his
officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Fleet:
Serial 01165 (February 9, 1945)
Born: December 6, 1911 at New York, New York
Home Town: San Diego, California
*BROWNE, ROBERT T. (MIA-KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy
Cross (Posthumously) to Robert T. Browne (0-210798), Lieutenant,
Junior Grade (MC), U.S. Navy (Reserve), for distinguished service in
the line of his profession, extraordinary courage, and disregard of
personal danger while serving as a Medical Officer on board the
Destroyer U.S.S. JOHNSTON (DD-557), when his ship was attacked at sea
in Philippine waters during the Battle of Samar on 25 October 1944.
When word to abandon ship had been given, Lieutenant, Junior Grade,
Browne remained on board an additional fifteen minutes supplying
injured men with life jackets, helping them off the ship, and caring
for the wounded in the face of terrific salvos from hostile gun
batteries. A calm and courageous leader, Lieutenant, Junior Grade,
Browne served as an inspiring example of fortitude and loyalty
throughout the bitter engagement, sustaining until he was killed by
enemy gunfire. By his gallant spirit of self sacrifice, he rendered
valiant service to his shipmates at extreme risk to his own life. By
his courage, determination, and untiring devotion to duty, Lieutenant,
Junior Grade, Browne saved many lives. His professional ability,
courage, and inspiring devotion to duty upheld the highest traditions
of the Medical Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Commander, 7th Fleet: Serial 03657
(December 31, 1944)
Born: October 2, 1916 at Detroit, Michigan
Home Town: Peoria, Illinois
BRUESTLE, LESTER KENNETH
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Lester Kenneth Bruestle (0-351088), Ensign, U.S. Navy
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy
while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Torpedo Bomber in
action against major units of the Japanese fleet in the vicinity of
Kyushu, Japan, on 7 April 1945. Despite adverse weather conditions and
in the face of intense anti-aircraft fire, Ensign Bruestle skillfully
and courageously piloted his plane in a successful torpedo attack on a
light cruiser, scoring a direct hit which contributed materially to
the sinking of the vessel immediately after the attack. His skill and
courage were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service.
Commander, 1st Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 0685 (July 4, 1945)
Home Town: Pelican Rapids, Minnesota
BRUNELLE, ALBERT WILFRED
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Albert Wilfred Brunelle, Motor Machinist's Mate Second
Class, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to
duty in action against the enemy while serving as a Member of the crew
of Motor Torpedo Boat FOUR HUNDRED NINETY-THREE (PT-493), when it
attacked a Japanese Destroyer in Surigao Strait, Philippine Islands on
25 October 1944. During his ship's retirement from the attack, Motor
Machinist's Mate Second Class Brunelle was on watch in the engine room
when Japanese 4.7-inch shells twice passed through his compartment.
Many items of machinery were wrecked, including the auxiliary
generator, and a large hole was blown in the side of his ship below
the water line. In utter disregard for his own personal safety, he
took off his own life jacket and stuffed it into the hole in an
attempt to stem the inrushing water. He made emergency repairs upon
the machinery which enabled the boat, though apparently in a helpless
condition, to maintain its course and escape from the enemy. His
magnificent efforts, under the severest of conditions undoubtedly
saved the lives of those on board who survived the enemy shelling. The
exceptional heroism, intrepidity, and outstanding devotion to duty
displayed by Motor Machinist's Mate Second Class Brunelle were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
Born: March 8, 1923 at Woonsocket,
Rhode Island
Home Town: Woonsocket, Rhode Island
BRUNMIER, CARLAND EDWARD
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Carland Edward Brunmier, Lieutenant Commander [then
Lieutenant], U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based
Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron FORTY-FOUR (VF-44), embarked
from the U.S.S. LANGLEY (CV-27), in action against enemy Japanese
forces during the Battle for Leyte Gulf, on 25 October 1944. After one
of our carriers had been seriously damaged, Lieutenant Commander
Brunmier courageously led his division in a daring attack against
twelve Japanese fighter planes within a much larger formation and,
despite the overwhelming odds, succeeded in destroying three enemy
planes, thereby contributing in large measure to the dispersal of the
hostile forces at a critical time when it was within thirty miles of
our surface units. By his splendid airmanship and gallant devotion to
duty, Lieutenant Commander Brunmier upheld the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service.
Commander, 2d Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 0568 (December 22, 1944)
Born: May 13, 1918 at Corona, California
Home Town: Bloomington, California
*BRUNN, OTHELLO CHRISTIAN
(POW-KIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy
Cross (Posthumously) to Othello Christian Brunn, Chief Pay Clerk (SC),
U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while
serving with the Supply Corps, SIXTEENTH Naval District, Cavite,
Philippine Islands, following the Japanese bombing attack on the
Cavite Naval Yard beginning on 10 December 1941. Chief Pay Clerk Brunn
deliberately braved the danger of exploding munitions and burning
buildings to remove official funds from the Navy Yard to a place of
safety. In the latter part of the month Chief Pay Clerk Brunn obtained
funds from Manila under hazardous circumstances during an intensive
bombing, in order to pay off in full, the 6,000 former Navy Yard
employees. The conduct of Chief Pay Clerk Brunn throughout this action
reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel
Information Bulletin No. 302 (May 1942)
Born: July 4, 1903 at Van Buren, Arkansas
Home Town: San Diego, California
BRUNT, ROBERT ROY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Robert Roy Brunt, Lieutenant [then Lieutenant, Junior
Grade], U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations
against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron SIXTEEN (VT-16), embarked from the
U.S.S. RANDOLPH (CV-15), in action against enemy Japanese forces in
the Inland Sea of Japan on 24 July 1945. Pressing home an aggressive
attack against a hostile battleship-carrier in the Kure Naval Base,
Lieutenant Brunt succeeded in scoring a direct hit and near misses
despite intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire, thereby contributing
materially to the destruction of the hostile vessel. His skillful
airmanship and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commander, 2d Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 01849 (September 17, 1947)
BRUSH, FREDERICK JAMES
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Frederick James Brush (0-70049), Commander, U.S. Navy,
for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while
serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane embarked from
the U.S.S. WASP (CV-18), in action in the vicinity of Tokyo Bay on 17
February 1945. Commander Brush skillfully and courageously conducted
and led a fighter bomber attack against an enemy aircraft carrier in
the face of intense anti-aircraft fire. During the attack, he scored
one direct bomb hit and one near miss, thereby contributing materially
to the sinking of the enemy warships. During the same flight he
engaged in aerial combat and damaged one enemy fighter plane. His
skill and courage and leadership were at all times in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commander, 1st Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 0260 (March 15, 1945)
Born: July 29, 1908 at Susquehanna, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Susquehanna, Pennsylvania
BRUTON,
HENRY CHESTER
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Henry Chester Bruton (0-60171), Lieutenant Commander,
U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the
line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. GREENLING
(SS-213), in the successful conduct of an offensive war patrol during
the SECOND War Patrol of that vessel from 10 July 1942 until 1
September 1942. In spite of strong enemy counter measures, Lieutenant
Commander Bruton coolly and courageously pressed home every favorable
attack opportunity and succeeded in sinking a total of 23,950 tons of
enemy merchant shipping. During one depth charge attack, depth charges
were dropping sufficiently close to jar personnel from their feet and
to cause minor damage throughout the ship, but he brought his ship
through and his crew home without loss and in splendid offensive
spirits. His courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the Naval Service.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Fleet:
Serial 24
BRUTON, HENRY CHESTER
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold
Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Henry Chester
Bruton (0-60171), Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism
in the line of his profession as
Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. GREENLING (SS-213). Lieutenant
Commander Bruton conducted an aggressive and successful war patrol in
enemy controlled waters, during the THIRD War Patrol of that vessel,
from 23 September 1942 to 1 November 1942. He distinguished himself by
extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against
armed enemy forces and by his skill, courage, aggressiveness and
determination, succeeded in sinking a total of 32,050 tons of enemy
shipping, besides damaging severely one converted aircraft carrier of
22,000 tons. Despite numerous patrol craft on anti-submarine patrol
and enemy counter efforts, Lieutenant Commander Bruton brought his
ship through unscathed and his crew home without loss or injury and in
splendid offensive spirits. His courage and skill were in keeping with
the highest traditions of the Naval Service.
Commander In Chief, Pacific Fleet:
Serial 03549(December 10, 1942)
BRUTON, HENRY CHESTER
(Third Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a
Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Navy Cross to Henry
Chester Bruton (0-60171), Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism
in the line of his
profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. GREENLING (SS-213), on
the FOURTH War Patrol of that vessel in enemy waters during the period
9 December 1942 through 31 January 1943. Lieutenant Commander Bruton
adeptly and daringly maneuvered his ship into positions from which to
strike the enemy, and aggressively attacked, sinking one 1,500 ton
destroyer, three medium-sized cargo vessels, and one small escort
vessel, a total of 20,700 tons, and damaging a large tanker of 9,000
tons. He handled his ship expertly to avoid damage from enemy counter
measures. His actions and conduct are a continuation of his
illustrious record, and are in keeping with the best traditions of the
Navy of the United States.
Commander, Southwest Pacific
Forces: Serial 0214 (February 18, 1943)
Born: February 15, 1905 at Belleville, Arkansas
Home Town: Little Rock, Arkansas
Personal Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
BRYAN, BRADY LAWSON
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Brady Lawson Bryan (416314), Chief Machinist's Mate,
U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while
serving on board the Destroyer U.S.S. MEREDITH (DD-726), in saving the
lives of four injured men by carrying them out of a totally dark,
shattered and flooded engineroom under hazardous conditions, when that
vessel struck an enemy mine while engaged in supporting the assault on
the Coast of France on 8 June 1944. Chief Machinist's Mate Bryan was
in charge of the watch in the after engineroom when the MEREDITH
struck a mine. Although dazed, he made his way out of the engineroom,
but upon learning that the twelve men of his watch were still below,
he, with total disregard for his own safety, and realizing that the
room was flooded to within four feet of the overhead, went below and
succeeded in rescuing four badly injured members of the crew who
otherwise would have gone down with the ship. The courage and decisive
action displayed by Chief Machinist's Mate Bryan on this occasion were
in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
Commander, Naval Forces, Europe:
Serial 001403 (July 8, 1944)
Born: August 4, 1915 at Waterman, Texas
Home Town: Huntington, Texas
*BRYAN, HORACE DEWAIN (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy
Cross (Posthumously) to Horace Dewain Bryan (0-278234), Lieutenant,
Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based
Navy Combat Plane in Composite Squadron EIGHTY (VC-8), embarked from
the U.S.S. MANILA BAY (CVE-61), in action against major units of the
enemy Japanese Fleet in the Camotes Sea Area of the Philippine
Islands, on 26 October 1944. Taking off from his parent carrier in
pursuit of the fleeing remnants of the Japanese task force which had
been heavily bettered by our carrier forces on the previous day,
Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Bryan voluntarily carried out a long-range
strike in company with planes from several other squadrons and,
plunging through a heavy curtain of merciless anti-aircraft fire, upon
contact with the enemy, executed a daring bomb attack to score two
direct hits on a hostile cruiser, leaving the Japanese warship
disabled and smoking heavily. Determined to annihilate the enemy
force, he continued his bold tactics, releasing his rockets in a low
altitude run which inflicted serous damage below the water line on an
enemy destroyer. Stout-hearted and aggressive in the face of fanatic
opposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Bryan, by his superb airmanship,
indomitable fighting spirit and tenacious perseverance in the
fulfillment of an urgent mission, contributed ,materially to the final
rout of the Japanese Fleet and his undaunted courage throughout a
period of fierce hostilities upheld the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
Commander, 7th Fleet: Serial 02520
(March 4, 1945)
Born: December 8, 1921 at Walsh, Colorado
Home Town: Walsh, Colorado
Personal Awards: Navy Cross (WWII), Air Medal, Purple Heart
BUCHAN, ROBERT B.
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Robert B. Buchan, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy
while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing
Squadron TWO (VB-2), embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2), in
action against enemy Japanese forces over enemy-controlled waters near
Lae and Salamaua, New Guinea on 10 March 1942. Lieutenant, Junior
Grade, Buchanan pressed home, in the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire,
a vigorous and determined dive bombing attack on enemy ships, sinking
three of them. His outstanding courage, daring airmanship and
determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commander In Chief, Pacific Fleet:
Serial 6 (April 27, 1942)
BUCHAN, ROBERT B.
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold
Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Robert B. Buchan,
Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron TWO (VB-2),
embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2), in action against enemy
Japanese forces during the Air Battle of the Coral Sea on 7 May 1942.
In the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire and fierce fighter opposition,
Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Buchan, leading a flight of his squadron,
dived his plane at an enemy Japanese aircraft carrier and released his
bomb with calm accuracy. By grim determination and expert appraisal of
his objective, he contributed materially to the high percentage of
hits inflicted by his particular squadron and assisted in ultimate
destruction of the enemy carrier. His individual action was an
important factor in the collective success of those United States
Naval forces which engaged in the enemy in the Battle of the Coral
Sea. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Buchan's' outstanding courage, daring
airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel
Information Bulletin No. 307 (October 1942)
Born: January 3, 1916 at Portland, Oregon
Home Town: Chicago, Illinois
Personal Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
BUCHANAN, CHARLES ALLEN
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Charles Allen Buchanan, Captain, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his
profession, in action against the enemy on 12 April 1945, at Okinawa
in the Ryukyu Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the
highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
BUCHANAN, ROBERT LESTER
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Robert Lester Buchanan (0-326183), Ensign, U.S. Navy
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy
while serving as the Pilot of a single- seater, carrier-based Navy
Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron TWENTY-NINE (VF-29), embarked from
the U.S.S. CABOT (CVL-28). On 16 October 1944, in the vicinity of
Formosa, Ensign Buchanan was a wingman in an eight-plane formation on
Combat Air Patrol. In the face of a large formation of enemy aircraft
approaching his own task group he courageously pressed home his
attacks and succeeded in destroying five enemy planes without damage
to himself. His fearless and aggressive action and his excellent
marksmanship contributed greatly to the repulse of this enemy threat
and were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
Commander, 2d Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 0592 (December 23, 1944)
Born: October 19, 1921 at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Clementon, New Jersey
BUCHER, RICHARD C.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Richard C. Bucher (7530131), Hospital Apprentice First
Class, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous
devotion to duty while serving as a Medical Corpsman with a Rifle
Company of the SIXTH Marine Division, in action against the enemy
during operations on Orote Peninsula, Guam, Marianas Islands, on 29
July 1944. Without regard for his own personal safety, Hospital
Apprentice First Class Bucher went to the aid of three wounded men
despite heavy enemy fire from two pillboxes, saving the life of one of
them who was bleeding to death. While applying first aid, he himself
received a wound in the face that destroyed his right eye. He was
pulled to safety and administered first aid. Shortly after first aid
had been applied he declared that he was feeling better. Despite his
painful wound and the loss of sight of one eye, he began to give first
aid to the wounded again until he collapsed from exhaustion. By his
courage and efforts in behalf of others at great risk to his own life,
Hospital Apprentice First Class Bucher undoubtedly saved many lives,
and his steadfast devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commanding General, Fleet Marine
Forces, Pacific: Serial 0296/295 (February 5, 1945)
Home Town: Chaign, Illinois
BUCKLEW, PHIL HINKLE
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Phil Hinkle Bucklew, Lieutenant, Junior Grade [then
Ensign], U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as a Scout Boat
Officer in action against enemy forces during the amphibious assault
on the Island of Sicily on 10 July 1943. Achieving a high degree of
success in his capable and resourceful training of scout boat crews
for the entire attack force, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Bucklew
participated in the actual invasion with outstanding courage.
Undeterred by glaring searchlight illumination and withering blasts of
hostile weapons, he proceeded through hazardous waters, located the
designated beach and directed the assault boat wave. Utterly
disregarding shore battery and machine-gun fire which repeatedly
struck his vessel, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Bucklew persevered in
guiding subsequent waves to the proper beach. The conduct of
Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Bucklew throughout this action reflects
great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel
Information Bulletin No. 334 (January 1945)
BUCKLEW, PHIL HINKLE
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold
Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Phil Hinkle
Bucklew, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his
profession as Officer in Charge of an LCT Scout Boat during the
amphibious assault on the Normandy Coast of France on 6 June 1944.
Embarked in one of the first craft to approach the strongly defended
cost, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Bucklew successfully accomplished his
highly important mission of locating the designated beaches and,
despite rough surf and continuous harassing enemy fire, skillfully led
the first wave of DD tanks, going in close to the beach and taking his
station as guide. Firing his boat's rockets over the tanks at target
objectives in support of the landings, he moved in closer to direct
his guns at suspected hostile machine-gun nests in houses along the
beach and subsequently, in the face of heavy enemy opposition, rescued
wounded personnel from burning landing craft and regulated the flow of
traffic throughout the morning and afternoon of D-Day. The conduct of
Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Bucklew throughout this action reflects
great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel
Information Bulletin No. 333 (December 1944)
Born: December 18, 1914 at Columbus, Ohio
Home Town: Ashville, Ohio
Personal Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
BUCKLEY, FRANKLIN D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Franklin D. Buckley, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his
profession as Executive Officer of the Minesweeper U.S.S. HERON
(AM-10), during operations in Dutch East Indies on 31 December 1941.
When the U.S.S. Heron was attacked by 15 hostile planes of various
types, Lieutenant Buckley directed the fire of the anti-aircraft
battery and succeeded in destroying one bomber, damaging at least one
more, and disrupted the effectiveness of the enemy efforts. The
conduct of Lieutenant Buckley throughout this action reflects great
credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel
Information Bulletin No. 303 (June 1942)
Home Town: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
BUDD, RALPH RANDOLPH
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Ralph Randolph Budd, Lieutenant, Junior Grade [then
Ensign], U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations
against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron ONE (VT-1), embarked from the U.S.S.
BENNINGTON (CV-20), in action against major units of the Japanese
Fleet at the heavily-defended Kure Naval Base, on 24 July 1945. Flying
through intense, accurate anti-aircraft fire from numerous enemy
warships and strategically located shore batteries which brought to
bear on his plane during the entire bombing run and retirement,
Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Budd coolly singled out a converted
battleship despite unfavorable weather which made target
identification difficult and, pressing home a daring glide-bombing
attack to low altitude, scored a direct hit on the hostile warship. By
his gallant fighting spirit, he contributed materially to the success
of a coordinated attack in which several capital ships of the Japanese
Navy were severely damaged. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Budd's
unswerving devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.
Commander, 2d Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 02040 (October 9, 1945)
Home Town: Gillespie, Illinois
BUELL, HAROLD LLOYD
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Harold Lloyd Buell, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as
Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber and Flight Leader in Bombing
Fighting Squadron TWO (VBF-2), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET
(CV-12), in action against the enemy fleet in the vicinity of the East
Philippine Sea on 20 June 1944. In the face of intense, accurate
anti-aircraft fire, which blew a three-foot hole in his wing just
after release, Lieutenant Buell led his division in a determined,
devastating dive bombing attack, himself scoring a direct hit on the
large enemy carrier under attack. Although wounded by a fragment from
the shell that hit is wing, he flew his severely damaged plane through
the night back to our carrier forces. By his brilliant airmanship,
aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty, Lieutenant
Buell contributed materially to the success of our operations in this
historic engagement, and his great personal valor in the face of grave
peril was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.
Commander, Fast Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 0438 (August 20, 1944)
Born: November 4, 1919 at Keokuk, Iowa
Home Town: Ottumwa, Iowa
BUIE, PAUL D.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Paul D. Buie, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane and Commanding Officer of Fighting
Squadron 16 (VF-16), embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), in
action in the Marianasfrom 11 to 25 June 1944. Commander Buie's
outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
Born: April 6, 1909 at Nashville,
Georgia
Home Town: Nashville, Georgia
BULKELEY,
JOHN DUNCAN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to John Duncan Bulkeley, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his
profession while serving as Commanding Officer of Motor Torpedo Boat
THIRTY-FOUR (PT-34), Motor Torpedo Boat Squadron THREE (MTB-3), in
connection with military operations against the Japanese enemy forces
in the Philippine Area on 18 and 19 January 1942. Despite enemy
machine gun fire, Lieutenant Bulkeley searched Binanga Bay, Luzon,
Philippine Islands, for an enemy ship reported therein, located and
sank the unidentified 5,000-ton enemy ship with torpedoes without
serious damage to his ship or casualty to his crew. The exceptional
bravery, aggressive leadership, and outstanding devotion to duty
displayed by Lieutenant Bulkeley were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: August 19, 1911 at New York, New
York
Home Town: Hackettstown, New Jersey
Personal Awards: Medal of Honor (WWII), Navy Cross (WWII), 2@
Distinguished Service Crosses (WWII), Navy Distinguished Service
Medal, 2@ Silver Stars (WWII), Purple Heart
BURACKER, WILLIAM HOUCK
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to William Houck Buracker (0-55970), Captain, U.S. Navy,
for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his
profession as Commanding Officer of the Light Aircraft Carrier U.S.S.
PRINCETON (CVL-23), during operations in the Western Pacific during
the months of September and October 1944. By his courageous and
inspiring leadership of his Carrier and Air Group, Captain Buracker
contributed directly toward destroying a large part of the enemy's
navy and air force. When his own ship was heavily damaged by superior
enemy forces, he made a heroic and determined effort to save her, with
utter disregard for his own safety, even in the face of three great
explosions, which efforts were continued until the tactical situation
demanded that she be sunk by our own fire. The conduct of Captain
Buracker throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself,
and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.
Commander, 2d Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 0427 (December 16, 1944)
Born: July 25, 1897 at Luray, Virginia
Home Town: Winchester, Massachusetts
BURCH, WILLIAM OSCAR, JR.
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to William Oscar Burch, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S.
Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while
serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane and Flight
Leader in Scouting Squadron FIVE (VS-5), embarked from the U.S.S.
YORKTOWN (CV-5), in action against enemy Japanese forces near Salamaua
and Lae, New Guinea, on 10 March 1942. Lieutenant Commander Burch
fearlessly led his squadron over high mountains and dense jungles of
New Guinea in a dive-bombing attack against three enemy airplane
tenders or transports. He and his squadron scored seven direct hits
and eight very near misses against the hostile vessels, one direct hit
being made by Lieutenant Commander Burch personally, contributed
materially to the sinking of the three Japanese ships.
BURCH, WILLIAM OSCAR, JR.
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold
Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to William Oscar
Burch, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism
in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane and Commanding Officer of Scouting
Squadron FIVE (VS-5), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in
action against enemy Japanese forces at Tulagi Harbor on 4 May 1942,
and in the Battle of the Coral Sea on 7 and 8 May 1942. Due to
Lieutenant Commander Burch's distinguished and capable leadership, the
high combat efficiency attained by units under his command enabled
them to deliver five aggressive and exceptionally successful
dive-bombing attacks, the first at Tulagi Harbor on 4 May in which at
least eight enemy Japanese vessels were destroyed or severely damaged,
and later on 7 May, when an enemy carrier was sunk. On 8 May his
squadron succeeded in sinking or severely damaging another enemy
Japanese carrier and contributed materially to the success of our
forces in the Battle of the Coral Sea. Lieutenant Commander Burch's
conscientious devotion to duty and gallant self-command against
formidable odds were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
BURCH, WILLIAM OSCAR, JR.
(Third Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a
Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Navy Cross to William
Oscar Burch, Jr., Lieutenant Commander [then Commander], U.S. Navy,
for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his
profession as Executive Officer of the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S.
TICONDEROGA (CV-14), when that ship was hit by an enemy Kamikaze
airplane while deployed off Formosa, on 21 January 1945. Organizing
fire-fighting crews on the hangar deck after his ship had been hit,
Burch was the first to take a hose into the fire despite the billowing
flames and continuous ammunition explosions although his clothes
caught fire on two occasions. After the fire-fighting crews were
functioning, he made his way to secondary control and manned his
exposed battle station until severely wounded by shrapnel. Refusing to
go to Sick Bay, he gave orders to be carried to the flight deck where
he directed the fire fighting until the flames were under control. His
conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the
Navy of the United States.
Born: June 27, 1904 at Paducah,
Kentucky
Home Town: Paducah, Kentucky
Personal Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
BURFORD, WILLIAM P
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to William P Burford, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for
exceptional courage, presence of mind, and devotion to duty and
disregard for his personal safety while serving as Commanding Officer
of the Destroyer U.S.S. MONAGHAN (DD-354), during the Japanese attack
on the United States Pacific Fleet in Pearl Harbor, Territory of
Hawaii, 7 December 1941. During the sortie of the U.S.S. MONAGHAN from
Pearl Harbor, a Japanese submarine was sighted in the harbor. Despite
the severe enemy bombing and strafing at the time, Lieutenant
Commander Burford, through skillful handling of his ship at high speed
in the shoal water and at a bend in the channel, attacked and
destroyed the submarine by ramming and with depth charges; and
completed the sortie from the harbor in an outstanding manner. The
conduct of Lieutenant Commander Burford throughout this action
reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: February 12, 1901 at Walla
Walla, Washington
Home Town: Seattle, Washington
BURK, JOSEPH W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Joseph W. Burk, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the
line of his profession while Commanding Motor Torpedo Boat THREE
HUNDRED FORTY-SIX (PT-346). During the period November 1943 through
January 1944, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Burk made twenty-one combat
patrols, courageously and aggressively pursuing Japanese barges along
the north coast of New Guinea and the west coast of New Britain. He
has participated in the destruction of 26 enemy barges, time and again
in the face of heavy and accurate fire from shore emplacements. He has
been bombed by enemy aircraft and sustained a direct hit on his boat
by an enemy 3-inch shell. On 8 January 1944, in company with Motor
Torpedo Boat 323, while engaged in attacking 10 enemy barges, fire
from heavy shore batteries was encountered. As Officer-in-Tactical-
Command, he left the barges and proceeded under the shore batteries,
silenced them, and returned to press home the attack on the barges,
completely destroying them. Two nights later in company with PT's 326
and 327, he successfully attacked and sank four heavily troop laden
barges. One hundred sixty enemy troops are estimated to have been
killed in this action which was bitterly resisted by the enemy, and
one prisoner of war was taken. He has on two occasions successfully
carried out secret missions far behind the enemy lines. The
exceptional bravery, aggressive leadership, and outstanding devotion
to duty displayed by Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Burk were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: January 19, 1914 at
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Beverly, New Jersey
BURKE, ARLEIGH ALBERT
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Arleigh Albert Burke, Captain, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his
profession as Commander of a Destroyer Squadron operating in the
Northern Solomon Islands area during the period from midnight 30
October to noon 2 November 1943. Captain Burke's squadron, as a part
of a task force, participated in the first bombardment of the Buka-Bonis
area and in the first daylight bombardment of the Shortland area.
During the night of November 1 - 2, a heavier gunned Japanese naval
force was met and decisively defeated with the loss to the enemy of
one cruiser and four destroyers sunk, and an additional two cruisers
and two destroyers damaged. The action contributed much to the success
of our operations at Empress Augusta Bay. Thereafter, a heavy air
attack by sixty-seven enemy dive bombers was fought off with a total
of seventeen enemy planes being destroyed. His conduct throughout was
in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United
States.
Born: October 19, 1901 at Boulder,
Colorado
Home Town: Boulder, Colorado
BURKE, EDMUND MICHAEL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Edmund Michael Burke, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S.
Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in
the line of his profession while serving with the Office of Strategic
Services during combat operations against enemy force in
enemy-occupied territory from 9 September 1944 to 17 October 1944.
Landing by parachute behind hostile lines in Haute-Saone Province,
France, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Burke fearlessly led patriot
recruits in three actions against an enemy force which was superior in
number and fire power and, exercising courage and strategic ability,
contributed materially to the capture of forty-eight hostile soldiers,
the killing of a larger number of troops, the liberation of
forty-three hostages and the capture of quantities of enemy material.
In addition, he voluntarily carried out three exceptionally hazardous
reconnaissance missions and repeatedly risked his life while crossing
and re-crossing the enemy's lines time after time to procure vital
information of great value to the attacking United States Forces. His
gallant conduct, initiative and devotion to duty throughout this
hazardous mission reflects great credit upon Lieutenant, Junior Grade,
Burke and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 0678 (May
9, 1949)
BURKE, EDWARD JOSEPH
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Edward Joseph Burke, Captain, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his
profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. PLUNKETT
(DD-431), during Landing Operations at Anzio, Italy, on 24 January
1944. When his ship was subjeced to the simultaneous heavy attacks of
enemy bombers and torpedo planes, Captain Burke maneuvered his vessel
with extreme skill and directed intense and accurate anti-aircraft
fire on the hostile planes. Although the PLUNKETT suffered six near
misses and a direct bomb hit during the sustained and vigorous
engagement, he fought his ship so heroically that two of the enemy
aircraft were destroyed and a third was observed retreating in smoke.
Captain Burke's courageous leadershp and decisive action throughout
reflect great credit upon himself, his command and the United States
Naval Service.
Commander, Naval Forces HAW: Serial
3293 (May 20, 1944)
Born: November 2, 1907 at Larksville, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania
BURKE, LOUIS EDWARD, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Louis Edward Burke, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S.
Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while
serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing
Squadron SIX (VB-6), embarked from the U.S.S. HANCOCK (CV-19), in
action against enemy Japanese forces in Kure Harbor, Japan, on 28 July
1945. Skillfully leading his group in an attack on major enemy Fleet
units including battleships, aircraft carriers, cruisers and
destroyers, many of which were camouflaged, Lieutenant Commander Burke
piloted his aircraft through intense anti-aircraft fire both from
enemy warships in the harbor and batteries on shore to score a direct
bomb hit on the battleship. By his skillful airmanship and courage,
Lieutenant Commander Burke contributed materially to the severe damage
done to this vessel and to its ultimate sinking. His outstanding
devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
Commander, 2d Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 01701 (September 3, 1946)
BURKHART, CALVIN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Calvin Burkhart, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as
Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron TWENTY
(VB-20), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during action
against units of the Japanese Fleet in waters west of the Central
Philippine Islands during the Battle for Leyte Gulf on 25 October
1944. Flying as wingman on a search and attack mission when an enemy
task force was sighted and his division was assigned an aircraft
carrier as a target, Lieutenant Burkhart defied the withering barrages
of antiaircraft fire to dive low over the hostile warship and release
his bombs at perilously low altitude to score direct hits which
started fires and contributed materially to the infliction of
extensive damage on the Japanese vessel. His superb airmanship,
inspiring courage and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest
credit upon Lieutenant Burkhart and the United States Naval Service.
Born: July 17, 1923 at Akron, Ohio
Home Town: Greeley, Colorado
BURLINGAME, CREED C.
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Creed C. Burlingame, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy,
for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his
profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SILVERSIDES (SS-236),
during the First War Patrol of that vessel in the immediate vicinity
of the enemy Japanese homeland during the period 30 April 1942 to 21
June 1942. Despite vigorous anti-submarine measures on the part of the
enemy, Lieutenant Commander Burlingame, availing himself of every
attack opportunity with courageous skill and efficiency, succeeded in
sinking one 1,400-ton Japanese submarine and a total of 24,227 tons of
enemy merchant shipping. After two offensives, the SILVERSIDES became
a constant target for aggressive and prolonged counterattacks by the
Japanese, but, under capable leadership and resourceful command, she
came through without serious material damage. Lieutenant Commander
Burlingame's calm fortitude and conscientious devotion to duty were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel
Information Bulletin No. 313 (April 1943)
BURLINGAME, CREED C.
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold
Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Creed C.
Burlingame, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism
and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding
Officer of the U.S.S. SILVERSIDES (SS-236), during the Second War
Patrol of that vessel in enemy controlled waters during the period 15
July 1942 to 8 September 1942. Despite strong enemy countermeasures
and unfavorable sea conditions, Lieutenant Commander Burlingame took
advantage of every opportunity to strike the enemy and in a series of
skillfully conducted attacks succeeded in sinking 15,250 tons of enemy
shipping and seriously damaging an additional 5,750 tons, without
casualty to personnel of his own command. Through his experience and
sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Burlingame brought his ship safely
back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his
officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel
Information Bulletin No. 313 (April 1943)
BURLINGAME, CREED C.
(Third Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a
Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Navy Cross to Creed
C. Burlingame, Captain [then Lieutenant Commander], U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism
in the line of his
profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SILVERSIDES (SS-236),
on the FOURTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 17
December 1942 to 31 January 1943, in enemy Japanese-controlled waters.
Skilled and tireless in the performance of duty, Captain Burlingame
courageously launched a series of brilliant torpedo attacks to sink
four enemy ships totaling 27, 785 tons and damaged an enemy submarine
of 1995 tons. By his effective evasive tactics, he succeeded in
escaping severe hostile countermeasures and in bringing his ship safe
to port. Captain Burlingame's leadership, courage and devotion to the
completion of each perilous mission reflect the highest credit upon
himself, his command and the United States Naval Service.
Commander in Chief, Pacific Fleet:
Serial 0619 (November 18, 1945)
Born: February 27, 1905 at Louisville, Kentucky
Home Town: Georgetown, Kentucky
Personal Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
BURNETT, ROBERT WESLEY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Robert Wesley Burnett, Lieutenant, Junior Grade [then
Ensign], U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations
against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Torpedo Airplane in Torpedo Squadron TWENTY-EIGHT (VT-28), embarked
from the U.S.S. MONTEREY (CVL-26), operating against major units of
the Japanese Fleet in the Marianas Islands during the First Battle of
the Philippine Sea, on 20 June 1944. Cool and courageous in the face
of intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire from numerous heavily armed
enemy warships, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Burnett carried out a bold
low-level bombing attack against the enemy Fleet, resulting in four
direct hits on a Japanese carrier. Returning to his Task Force after a
300-mile flight through darkness and unfavorable weather, he
skillfully executed a safe landing in the sea. Lieutenant, Junior
Grade, Burnett's aggressiveness, superb airmanship, daring combat
tactics and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commander, Fast Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 0289 (August 3, 1944)
Born: August 15, 1915 at Oakland, California
Home Town: Oakland, California
BURNS, EDWARD STITT
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Edward Stitt Burns, Commander, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his
profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. HOWORTH
(DD-592), in action against enemy Japanese forces while engaged in
Transport Screening Operations off Okinawa Shima in the Ryukyu Chain,
from 1 to 6 April 1945. Maintaining a constant vigil by day and by
night, Commander Burns held his ship and her company at the peak of
combat readiness and conducted the operations of his command with
unfaltering skill and determination as he repeatedly drove off
attacking enemy aircraft to provide effective protection for our
transports during the assault and occupation of this fiercely defended
outpost of the Japanese Empire. Subjected to an extremely heavy aerial
assault on 6 April, he met the challenge of viciously diving kamikaze
planes with the ready fire of his powerful gun batteries, splashing
one suicide diver in flames and shooting down a second close aboard.
When eight Japanese planes plunged in coordinated suicide attack
against his ship, he maneuvered radically at high speed and delivered
a tremendous volume of fire from all guns to destroy four additional
enemy planes before a fifth succeeded in crashing the HOWORTH.
Instantly initiating damage control measures, Commander Burns quickly
minimized the damage to his gallant vessel and returned her safe to
port. His indomitable leadership, superb shiphandling and unwavering
devotion to duty in the face of tremendous odds throughout an extended
period of intensive operations were important factors in the success
of the Okinawa Operation and reflect the highest credit upon Commander
Burns and upon the United States Naval Service.
Commander, 5th TaskFleet: Serial
01553 (September 13, 1945)
*BURNS, JOHN A. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy
Cross (Posthumously) to John A. Burns, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S.
Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the
enemy while serving as Pilot of a Navy OS2U "Kingfisher"
embarked from the Battleship U.S.S. NORTH CAROLINA (BB-55), in action
against enemy Japanese forces near Truk, in the Pacific War Area on 30
April 1944. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Burns flew boldly to an area
within close range of hostile shore batteries to rescue a pilot of a
U.S. Navy airplane that had gone down in the vicinity, recovering the
pilot as well as the pilot and two crewmen of a previously dispatched
OS2U "Kingfisher" that had capsized during an earlier rescue
attempt. After transferring the rescued airman to an United States
Submarine, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Burns returned a second time to
rescue yet another downed pilot. Finding his aircraft too heavy and
the waters too rough to take off, and while awaiting contact from the
American submarine, two more United States Navy airplanes were hit and
forced to ditch in the vicinity. Taxiing extensively from one life
raft to another, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Burns rescued the pilots of
both aircraft and each of the two Avenger's two crewmen. By his daring
initiative and dedication to duty, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Burns was
able to effect the rescue of 10 Naval aviators. His conduct throughout
this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel
Information Bulletin No. 336 (March 1945)
Born: June 3, 1918 at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Wynnewood, Pennsylvania
BURNS, JOHN SIMEON
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to John Simeon Burns, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his
profession as Acting Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. WALKE
(DD-416), in action against enemy Japanese forces during operations in
the support of landings in Lingayen Gulf, Luzon, Philippine Islands,
from 6 to 14 January 1945. When his ship was severely damaged by a
hostile suicide plane and the Commanding Officer fatally wounded,
Lieutenant Burns assumed command and, with great initiative and
ability, effected immediate temporary repairs which enabled the WALKE
to continue operations against the enemy. Although handicapped by the
loss of many key officers and men, he reorganized and directed his
ship in the performance of her assigned duties, contributing
substantially to the success of the Philippine Campaign. His courage
and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Lieutenant Burns
and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 3332
(November 12, 1946)
BURNS, WILLIAM SHULER
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to William Shuler Burns, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve),
for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while
serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo
Squadron FIFTEEN (VT-15, embarked from the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in
action against enemy Japanese surface forces over the Sibuyan Sea
during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands on 24
October 1944. Leading his division through intense and accurate
anti-aircraft fire, Lieutenant Burns pressed home his attack to close
range, scoring a hit and inflicting damage. His courage and devotion
to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.
Commander, 2d Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 0451 (December 17, 1944)
Born: August 30, 1917 at Lebanon, Virginia
Home Town: Lancaster, Pennsylvania
*BURR, LELAND MOTHERSHEAD (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy
Cross (Posthumously) to Leland Mothershead Burr (0-128611), Lieutenant
Commander, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as
Staff Watch Officer on board the Transport Ship U.S.S. CALLAWAY
(APA-35), Flagship of Transport Division TWENTY-SIX, when that vessel
was struck by a Japanese plane off the Coast of Luzon, in the
Philippine Islands, on 8 January 1945. At his post on the starboard
wing of the bridge when the enemy craft exploded close by his station,
starting raging fires and inflicting serious casualties on the ship's
company, Lieutenant Commander Burr unhesitatingly rushed forward
although his clothing was aflame, to aid crewmen trapped in the 20-mm.
clipping room abaft the bridge and, disregarding the searing pain of
burns received in the initial blast, resolutely entered the twisted,
blazing compartment where ready ammunition was exploding violently.
Carrying one man to safety, he gallantly forced his way back through
the blinding smoke and scorching flames for the second casualty and
succeeded in removing him despite additional burns sustained in his
struggle to extricate the unconscious man. Steadfastly refusing
medical care, he staunchly continued his valiant efforts, fighting the
spreading fires and rendering assistance wherever possible until
ordered to sick bay by his Commanding Officer. Unwavering in his
devotion to duty, he insisted on briefing his replacement in the
details of the beachmaster's responsibilities and lucidly discussed
with the Attack Force Control Officer such problems as might arise
during the coming assault against Luzon, ultimately lapsing into a
coma from which he never recovered. Concerned only for the safety of
his ship and her company, Lieutenant Commander Burr, by his
indomitable determination and self-sacrificing conduct in the face of
apparent disaster, served as an inspiring example to the officers and
men with whom he served and his great personal courage throughout a
critical period upheld the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Authority: Board Serial 00190
(January 13, 1945)
Born: November 11, 1907 at Montclair, New Jersey
Home Town: Lincoln, Massachusetts
BURROWS, ALBERT C.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Albert C. Burrows, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism
in the line of his
profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. WHALE (SS-238), during
the FOURTH War Patrol of that submarine in the period 10 May 1943 to
21 June 1943, in waters of the shipping lanes between Japan, Truk, and
Saipan. Taking timely advantage of every favorable attack opportunity,
Commander Burrows, with courageous skill and persistent determination,
succeeded in sinking four hostile freighters totaling 33,506 tons.
Despite vigorous anti-submarine measures on the part of the enemy, he
managed, by expert maneuvering, to bring his ship through an extremely
hazardous period without serious material damage to herself or
personal casualties to her crew. His superb seamanship and
conscientious devotion to duty, maintained with utter disregard of
personal safety, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
Authority: Board Serial 36 (July 8,
1943)
Born: September 23, 1905 at Shawnee, Oklahoma
Home Town: Washington, D.C.
BURRUS, JOHN CLINTON
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to John Clinton Burrus, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve),
for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while
serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo
Squadron SIX (VT-6), embarked from the U.S.S. HANCOCK (CV-19), in the
attack on major units of the Japanese fleet in Kure Harbor, Japan,
consisting of battleships, carriers and heavy cruisers, on 24 July
1945. Courageously leading his division through heavy anti-aircraft
fire from enemy warships and strategically-placed shore batteries,
Lieutenant Burrus pressed home a determined bombing attack on a large
aircraft carrier and scored one of two direct hits obtained by his
division on the enemy warship. Lieutenant Burrus' gallant fighting
spirit and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest
traditions fo the United States Naval Service.
Commander, 2d Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 01680 (September 1, 1945)
Born: December 15, 1903 at Washington, D.C.
Home Town: Washington, D.C.
BUSCK, VILHELM KLEIN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Vilhelm Klein Busck, Commander, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his
profession as Commander, LST Group FIFTEEN during operations at Vella
Lavella during the period 1 to 27 October 1943. On 1 October, when a
ship under his command was set afire by dive-bombing attacks and her
crew forced to abandon her, Commander Busck boarded the vessel alone
and surveyed the extent of damage in the midst of flames and
explosions from her ignited cargo of gasoline and ammunition. He
expertly directed fire-fighting operations until repeated bombings
rendered the ship untenable. Later, during the initial landing on the
Treasury Islands, he calmly supervised unloading activities under
hostile fire. Commander Busck's inspiring leadership and the valiant
devotion to duty of his command contributed in large measure to the
outstanding success of these vital missions and reflect great credit
upon the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel
Information Bulletin No. 336 (March 1945)
Home Town: Washington, D.C.
BUSH, BILLY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Billy Bush, Lieutenant [then Lieutenant, Junior Grade],
U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against
the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber
and Flight Leader in Bombing Fighting Squadron TWO (VBF-2), embarked
from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-12), during action against major units of
the Japanese Fleet in the First Battle of the Philippine Sea on 20
June 1944. Carrying out a dive bombing attack in the face of hostile
anti-aircraft fire, Lieutenant Bush scored a direct hit to assist in
destroying a large enemy carrier and, with his craft's fuel supply
exhausted during the return to base, executed a water landing near his
carrier. By his skill as an airman and devotion to duty, Lieutenant
bush upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commander, Fast Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 0438 (August 20, 1944)
Born: May 28, 1920 at Pueblo, Colorado
Home Town: Denver, Colorado
BUTEL, JOSEPH LOUIS
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Joseph Louis Butel, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as
Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane of Fighting Squadron SIX
(VF-6), embarked from the U.S.S. HANCOCK (CV-19), during action
against enemy Japanese forces at Kure Harbor, Japan, on 25 July 1945.
Undaunted by hazardous weather condition that closed in the target,
Ensign Butel boldly plunged through a small opening in the clouds and,
in the face of intense anti-aircraft fire, carried out an attack
against major units of the Japanese Fleet, personally scoring a direct
hit to leave a hostile battleship on fire and smoking. By his skill as
an airman and devotion to duty, Ensign Butel upheld the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Commander, 2d Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 1942 (September 26, 1945)
*BUTLER, JOHN CLARENCE (MIA-KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy
Cross (Posthumously) to John Clarence Butler (0-104236), Ensign, U.S.
Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the
enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber of
Bombing Squadron THREE (VB-3), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN
(CV-5), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy
Japanese forces on 4 - 6 June 1942. Ensign Butler took part in
dive-bombing attacks against Japanese naval forces in the Battle of
Midway. Disregarding the extreme danger from intense anti-aircraft
fire and enemy fighter opposition, he, vigorously and with heroic
determination, pressed home his attacks against the Japanese invasion
fleet thereby contributing in great measure to the glorious and
decisive victory of our forces. His outstanding courage and determined
skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his
life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel
Information Bulletin No. 309 (December 1942)
Born: February 2, 1921 at Liberty, Arizona
Home Town: Phoenix, Arizona
BUTLER, WILLIAM CLAYTON, JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to William Clayton Butler, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S.
Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line
of his profession while serving on board the Light Cruiser U.S.S.
BOISE (CL-47), during action against enemy Japanese naval forces off
Savo Island during the Battle of Cape Esperance on the night of 11 -
12 October 1942. Lieutenant Commander Butler's conduct throughout was
in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United
States.
Born: October 5, 1907 at Bristol,
Virginia
Home Town: Washington, D.C.
BUTT, NOAH BROWN, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Noah Brown Butt, Jr., Lieutenant, Junior Grade [then
Ensign], U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations
against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Fighter Plane in Composite Squadron SEVENTY-SIX (VC-76), embarked from
the U.S.S. PETROF BAY (CVE-80), during operations against major units
of the Japanese Fleet in the Battle for Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944.
Participating in a six-plane fighter strike carried out without
surface support, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Butt boldly attacked the
large enemy Task Force in the face of an intense barrage of
anti-aircraft fire. Despite the overwhelming odds and the fact that
his plane made a conspicuous target due to the small number of planes
in the strike, he lashed at the enemy with grim determination and
succeeded in diverting an enormous quantity of anti-aircraft fire that
otherwise would have been hurled at our Torpedo Planes which followed
him in. By his action, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Butt contributed
greatly to the success of the torpedo attacks which resulted in the
infliction of extensive damage upon capital ships of the Japanese
Navy. His gallant fighting spirit, coolness under fire and devotion to
duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.
Commander, 7th Fleet: Serial 0845
(February 22, 1945)
Born: September 19, 1921 at Cocoa, Florida
Home Town: Roanoke, Virginia
BUTTS, JOHN L., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to John L. Butts, Jr., Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as
Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron SIX
(VB-6), embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), in action on 24
October 1944, during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine
Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all
times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
Born: December 20, 1920 at Miami,
Florida
Home Town: Sumterville, Florida
BYRNE, PAUL VINCENT
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Paul Vincent Byrne, Lieutenant [then Lieutenant, Junior
Grade], U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the
enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in
Torpedo Squadron EIGHTY-THREE (VT-83), embarked from the U.S.S. ESSEX
(CV-9), in action against enemy Japanese Fleet units at the Kure Naval
Base, Honshu, Japan, on 19 March 1945. Participating in an attack on
major ships of the enemy Fleet, including aircraft carriers,
battleships, cruisers and destroyers, Lieutenant Byrne pressed home
his attack in the face of intense anti-aircraft fire to score a direct
hit on an enemy aircraft carrier. His skill, courage and devotion to
duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.
Commander, 1st Carrier Task Force,
Pacific: Serial 0807 (July 6, 1945)
Home Town: Chicago, Illinois
BYROM, JACK ALVIN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the
Navy Cross to Jack Alvin Byrom, Chief Petty Officer, U.S. Navy
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while in
charge of a Scout Boat from the Transport Ship U.S.S. JOSEPH T.
DICKMAN (AP-26), during the assault on and occupation of French
Morocco from 8 to 11 November 1942. Preceding the assault on Fedala on
8 November, Chief Petty Officer Byrom skillfully maneuvered his craft
in complete darkness from the transport area six miles off the coast
toward the landing beach designated for the assault battalion of the
Joseph T. Dickman. Despite a dangerous rock reef at the end of the
beach and enemy batteries menacing the shore, he located his position
and by prescribed signals guided incoming boat waves of troops.
Although under fire from hostile forces, Chief Petty Officer Byrom
gallantly maintained his station until his mission was accomplished,
thereby contributing to the successful landing of our troops. His
conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the
Navy of the United States.
Bureau of Naval Personnel
Information Bulletin No. 319 (October 1943)
Born: March 28, 1914 at Durant, Oklahoma
Home Town: Durant, Oklahoma
*BANGUST,
JOSEPH (KIA)
*BARNES,
DOYLE CLAYTON (MIA-KIA)
BARR,
ERIC LLOYD, JR.
BARUZZINI,
JOSEPH LOUIS
BEACH,
EDWARD LATIMER, JR.
*BEGOR,
FAY BROUGHTON (KIA)
BELL,
FREDERICK JACKSON
BIGELOW,
LAVELL MELDRUM
BOWERS,
THOMAS KENT
