HAAG, SYLVESTER J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Sylvester J. Haag, Chief Shipfitter, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism
and devotion to duty while serving on board the U.S.S. CURTISS (AV-4), in
action against the enemy on June, 21, 1945, at Kerama Retto, Ryukyu Islands.
His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy
of the United States.
*HAAS, JOHN WILLIAM (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to John William Haas (0-146612), Chief Machinist, 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 THREE (VT-3),
embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), during the "Air Battle of
Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 June 1942. Participating in a
Torpedo Plane assault against Japanese naval units, Chief Machinist Haas, in
the face of tremendous anti-aircraft fire and overwhelming fighter opposition,
pressed home his attack to a point where it became relatively certain that, in
order to accomplish his mission, he would probably sacrifice his life.
Undeterred by the grave possibilities of such a hazardous offensive, he
carried on, with extreme disregard for his own personal safety, until his
squadron scored direct hits on two enemy aircraft carriers. His self
sacrificing gallantry and fortitude 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. 309 (December 1942)
HAAS, WALTER ALBERT
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Walter Albert Haas, 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 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 on 7 and 8 May 1942. As part of
a fighter escort on 7 May, in the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire over enemy
ships, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Haas pressed home his attack and shot down
two enemy fighters, thereby assisting in the successful execution of a mission
by our Torpedo Planes. On 8 May, after assisting in the destruction of a
Japanese patrol bomber and one dive bomber, he again displayed extraordinary
daring in an attack on fifteen enemy aircraft, following the enemy bombers
down in their dive, even into the area of antiaircraft fire from our own
ships, thereby frustrating the success of the enemy attack. In these
engagements Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Haas displayed a high degree of courage,
executing his missions with complete disregard for his own safety against
heavy odds. His throughout 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. 307 (October 1942)
Born: August 31, 1912 at Collingswood, New Jersey
Home Town: Collingswood, New Jersey
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HAAS, WALTER ALBERT
(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 Walter Albert Haas, 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 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. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Haas took off from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN
to defend her against aerial torpedo attack by Japanese forces. Due to
circumstances which had rendered the fueling of his plane impossible, he faced
the hazardous prospect of aerial combat with only a small fraction of his
gasoline capacity available. Despite the fact that his plane, shortly after
becoming airborne, was severely damaged by antiaircraft fire directed by our
own ships against the attacking enemy, he pressed home such a vigorous assault
against a Japanese Torpedo Plane that it eventually made a wild release of its
torpedo. Following up his attack with determined persistence, he shortly
afterwards observed the craft crash into the sea. The outstanding courage and
determined skill displayed by Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Haas 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. 311 (February 1943)
Born: August 31, 1912 at Collingswood, New Jersey
Home Town: Collingswood, New Jersey
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HABECKER, FREDERIC S.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Frederic S. Habecker, 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. RICHARD P. LEARY (DD-664), in action against enemy
Japanese forces at Surigao Strait during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the
Philippine Islands on the night of 24 - 25 October 1944. This successful
attack contributed in large measure to eliminating an imminent and dangerous
threat to our transports and other ships in Leyte Gulf. Commander Habecker's
high professional skill, forceful leadership, and gallant devotion to duty
were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
HAGAN, HAROLD F.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Harold F. Hagan, 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 SIX (VF-6),
embarked from the U.S.S. HANCOCK (CV-19), in action on 25 July 1945, while
deployed over Kure, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were
at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
HAGEN, ROBERT CRIS
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert Cris Hagen, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Gunnery
Officer aboard the Destroyer U.S.S. JOHNSTON (DD-557), in action against enemy
Japanese forces when his ship was attacked at sea in Philippine waters during
the Battle of Samar on 25 October 1944. His conduct throughout was in keeping
with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
HAINES, JOHN MEADE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John Meade Haines, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Force Commander,
Submarine Squadron SIXTEEN, for aggressive and successful conduct of a
Marine-Submarine Raider Expedition from 8 August 1942. As Force Commander of
naval units, Commander Haines' displayed great skill and courage in carrying
out an untried and hazardous mission. Although harassed by enemy aircraft and
maneuvering his vessels in immediate proximity to an enemy-controlled coast,
he succeeded in effecting an undetected landing of Marines against an alert
enemy and later effected a highly successful withdrawal. He also directed the
ships in his command to fire on two enemy ships in the lagoon, which were sunk
by gunfire. His courage and skill in the handling of the vessels of his
command on this occasion were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
naval service.
*HAINES, RICHARD A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Richard A. Haines, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession
while serving on board the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. NEW ORLEANS (CA-32), in action
after the torpedoing of his ship in enemy-controlled waters during the Battle
of Tassafaronga on the night of 30 November 1942. His conduct throughout was
in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
HALE, CORNELIUS CLAY
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Cornelius Clay Hale, 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. By his superb flying ability, indomitable fighting spirit and
cool courage, maintained at great personal risk, Lieutenant Hale 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.
HALE, HENRY HENDERSON
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Henry Henderson Hale, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as Air
Officer on board the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. FRANKLIN (CV-13), which was
striking the Japanese home islands in the vicinity of Kobe, Japan, on 19 March
1945. When his ship was struck by enemy bombs which caused tremendous fires
and explosions among a large number of fully armed and fueled planes both on
the flight deck and in the hangar, Commander Hale took charge of firefighting
and damage control parties on the flight deck and hangar deck. 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. 341 (August 1945)
HALL, DAVID ROGERS
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to David Rogers Hall, 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 24 October 1944. In the face of intense and accurate
antiaircraft fire from the whole enemy formation, under extremely hazardous
combat conditions, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Hall participated in a bombing
attack on a Japanese ship. Fearlessly maneuvering through withering hostile
fire of all calibers, he pressed home his attack. Lieutenant, Junior Grade,
Hall's outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring
and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HALL, FRANK MARTIN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Frank Martin Hall, 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 Medical Officer in charge of
the 7th Beach Battalion, Naval Beach Party Medical Team, during the invasion
of the Coast of France, on 6 June 1944. Forced to swim three miles to shore
when his own landing craft was sunk during the initial assault, Lieutenant,
Junior Grade, Hall gallantly carried on his mission with such meager supplies
as he was able to salvage from the dead and wounded. Completely unmindful of
his own danger, he labored with untiring zeal under the terrific fire of the
enemy, resolutely assuming command of all medical work on an additional beach
when it was determined that the officer in charge was missing in action and,
despite the extreme hazards and the grueling strain, skillfully covered two
beaches without relief until the afternoon of D-plus-two day. By his courage,
determination, and untiring devotion to duty, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Hall
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.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 334 (January 1945)
HALL, FRED MARTIN
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Fred Martin Hall, Ensign, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Flight Deck Officer on
board the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. FRANKLIN (CV-13), which was striking the
Japanese home islands in the vicinity of Kobe, Japan, on 19 March 1945. On
that date the FRANKLIN was struck by enemy bombs which caused tremendous fires
and explosions among a large number of fully armed and fueled planes both on
the flight deck and in the hangar. The conduct of Ensign Hall throughout this
action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HALL, GROVER B.H.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Grover B.H. Hall, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), in action against the enemy on
20 March 1945, in the Pacific War Area. His conduct throughout was in keeping
with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 342 (September 1945)
HALL, KENNETH CHARLES
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Kenneth Charles Hall, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Combat Plane, in action on 24 July 1945, while deployed
over Kure, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all
times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HALL, KENNETH CHARLES
(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 Kenneth Charles Hall, Lieutenant,
U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy
while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane, in action on 28
July 1945, while deployed over Kure, Japan. His outstanding courage and
determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HALL, WILLIAM MERIDETH
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to William Merideth Hall, 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 action on 27 August 1942, while deployed
over the Solomon 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.
*HALPERIN, ROBERT
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Robert Halperin, Chief Specialist, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while in charge of a Scout Boat
from the Northern Attack Group during the assault on and occupation of French
Morocco from 8 to 11 November 1942. Preceding the assault on Mehdia on 8
November, Chief Specialist Halperin skillfully maneuvered his boat in complete
darkness from the transport area seven miles off the coast into a position to
locate and mark landing beaches on the hostile shore. Landing an Army scout
party at the prescribed beach, he then, at great risk of his life and despite
the strafing of enemy planes, steadfastly maintained a position off shore and
guided incoming waves of assault troops to their proper destination. When all
had landed, he assisted the shore party in locating points of egress from the
beach and connecting roads inland, and personally captured two enemy officers.
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)
Home Town: Chicago, Illinois
*HALSEY, DELBERT WAYNE (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Delbert Wayne Halsey (0-100019), 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 SIX
(VB-6), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during the "Air
Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 - 6 June 1942.
Defying extreme danger from concentrated anti- aircraft barrage and powerful
fighter opposition, Ensign Halsey, with bold determination and courageous
zeal, participated in dive-bombing assaults against Japanese naval units.
Flying at a distance from his own forces which rendered return unlikely
because of probable fuel exhaustion, he pressed home his attacks with extreme
disregard for his own personal safety. His gallant intrepidity and loyal
devotion to duty contributed greatly to the success of our forces and 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. 309 (December 1942)
HALSTROM, PAUL ROBERT
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Paul Robert Halstrom, 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. By his superb flying ability, indomitable fighting spirit and
cool courage, maintained at great personal risk, Lieutenant, Junior Grade,
Halstrom 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.
HAMBERGER, DEWITT C.E.
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to DeWitt C.E. Hamberger, 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. CONVERSE (DD-509), during an engagement with Japanese
naval forces at Empress Augusta Bay, off Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on the
night of 1 - 2 November 1943. With his Task Force engaging a Japanese surface
force of superior fire power, Commander Hamberger sought out and engaged six
Japanese warships, pressing home vigorous and unrelenting attacks. He hurled
the full fighting strength of his ship against the enemy and, by his inspiring
leadership and skilled combat tactics, evoked the indomitable fighting spirit
which enabled his officers and men to contribute materially to the sinking of
four ships and the serious damaging of two others, thereby aiding in the
establishment of our beachhead on Bougainville Island. Commander Hamberger'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)
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HAMBERGER, DEWITT C.E.
(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 DeWitt C.E. Hamberger, 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. CONVERSE
(DD-509), in action against the enemy on 24 and 25 November 1943, in the
Solomon Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HAMILTON, CURTIS WELDON L.
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Curtis Weldon L. Hamilton, Ensign, 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 TWO (VT-2), embarked from the U.S.S.
LEXINGTON (CV-2), CV-2), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Air
Battle of the Coral Sea on 7 May 1942. In spite of heavy antiaircraft fire and
strong fighter opposition, Ensign Hamilton pressed home an attack against an
enemy aircraft carrier to within the dangerously short range of a few hundred
yards of the target. He was able to score a hit on the enemy ship by utter
disregard for his own safety and determination in carrying out his mission.
Contributing to the destruction of the enemy carrier and to the success of our
forces in the Coral Sea Battle, he conducted himself on this occasion in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 308 (November 1942)
Home Town: Coronado, California
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HAMILTON, CURTIS WELDON L.
(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 Curtis Weldon L. Hamilton, Ensign,
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 TWO
(VT-2), embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2), CV-2), in action against
enemy Japanese forces.
Home Town: Coronado, California
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HAMILTON, WELDON LEE
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Weldon Lee Hamilton, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber and Commanding Officer of 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 Commander Hamilton led his squadron 125 miles
over uncharted mountains and jungles, to press home in the face of heavy
anti-aircraft fire, a vigorous and determined dive bombing attack on enemy
ships, sinking three of them. Lieutenant Commander Hamilton's outstanding
courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: December 9, 1906 at Darlington, South
Carolina
Home Town: Coronado, California
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HAMILTON, WELDON LEE
(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 Weldon Lee Hamilton, Lieutenant
Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the
enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber and
Commanding Officer of 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 Commander Hamilton led his squadron
and dived his plane at an enemy Japanese aircraft carrier, releasing his bomb
with calm and 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.
Born: December 9, 1906 at Darlington, South
Carolina
Home Town: Coronado, California
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
*HAMM, ANDREW BRITTE
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Andrew Britte Hamm (0-82340), 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 ONE (VB-1),
embarked from the U.S.S. BENNINGTON (CV-20), and deployed over Kure, Japan, on
24 July 1945. While flying a dive bomber plane, Lieutenant Commander Hamm
pressed home his attack in the face of intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire
from enemy warships and shore batteries and scored a direct bomb hit on an
enemy aircraft carrier in the heart of the Japanese homeland. At the time, he
was the leader of his squadron's phase of the overall Task Force attack on a
concentration of Japanese battleships, heavy and light cruisers, aircraft
carriers and numerous smaller war craft in the Kure Naval Base harbor. Under
his skillful direction and determined leadership, his squadron contributed
materially to the outstanding success of the Task Force attack. His heroic
conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII), 2@
Distinguished Flying Crosses, Purple Heart
*HAMM, ANDREW BRITTE
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting a Gold Star in
lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Andrew Britte Hamm
(0-82340), 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 ONE (VB-1), embarked from the U.S.S.
BENNINGTON (CV-20), and deployed over Kure, Japan, on 28 July 1945. While
flying a Navy dive bomber plane in which, in the face of one of the heaviest
anti-aircraft barrages ever encountered over the Japanese homeland, Lieutenant
Commander Hamm pressed home his attack to a very low altitude above the
target, released his bomb and scored a direct hit on an enemy aircraft
carrier. At the time he was the leader of his Dive Bombing Squadron in its
attack on Japanese battleships, heavy and light cruisers, aircraft carriers
and smaller warships in the heavily defended Kure Naval Base harbor of the
island of Honshu. His own damaging bomb hit and his leadership of the attack
in the face of the intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire of the ship and
shore batteries contributed materially to the success of the overall attack by
the Task Force. His determination and heroic conduct were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII), 2@
Distinguished Flying Crosses, Purple Heart
HANANWALT, WINTHROP RICHARD
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Winthrop Richard Hananwalt, 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 NINE (VB-9), embarked from
the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-10), in action against the Japanese on 7 April 1945,
while deployed over the East China Sea. Ensign Hananwalt's outstanding courage
and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
*HANK, WILLIAM EDWIN (MIA)
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to William Edwin Hank (0-059695), 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. LAFFEY (DD-459),
during action against enemy Japanese naval forces off Savo Island during the
Battle of Cape Esperance on the night of 11 - 12 October 1942. Boldly engaging
a Japanese force of two destroyers and a cruiser, Lieutenant Commander Hank,
despite his extremely hazardous position in a leading group and the terrific
fire of the enemy, fought his ship with devastating effect upon the opposing
vessels. Directing the fire of his guns with cool and daring accuracy, he
enabled the LAFFEY to sink one hostile destroyer, to damage another, and to
assist in the sinking of a cruiser. By his indomitable fighting spirit, expert
seamanship, and gallant devotion to duty, he contributed largely to the
success of the battle and upheld the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.
Born: September 25, 1902 at Norfolk, Virginia
Home Town: Toledo, Ohio
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII), Purple Heart
*HANK, WILLIAM EDWIN (MIA)
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting a Gold Star in
lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to William Edwin Hank
(0-059695), 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. LAFFEY (DD-459), during an engagement with Japanese naval
forces near Savo Island on the night of 12 - 13 November, 1942. On this
occasion the force to which Lieutenant Commander Hank was attached engaged at
close quarters and defeated a superior enemy force, inflicting heavy damage
upon them and preventing the accomplishment of their intended mission. This
daring and intrepid attack, brilliantly executed, led to a great victory for
his country's forces. By his indomitable fighting spirit, expert seamanship,
and gallant devotion to duty, Lieutenant Commander Hank contributed largely to
the success of the battle and upheld the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 320 (November 1943)
Born: September 25, 1902 at Norfolk, Virginia
Home Town: Toledo, Ohio
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII), Purple Heart
HANKS, EUGENE RALPH
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Eugene Ralph Hanks, 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 SIXTEEN (VF-16),
embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-6), during action against enemy Japanese
forces in the Gilbert and Marshall Islands Areas from 19 to 24 November 1943.
Gallantly leading his four-plane combat team as part of a twelve plane air
patrol intercepting a strong force of hostile aircraft on 23 November
Lieutenant Hanks fought his plane boldly and with relentless determination
and, although outnumbered nearly two to one, personally shot down five
Japanese planes and probably another of the seventeen destroyed during the
bitter engagement. Again vastly outnumbered the following day, he continued
his bold tactics and, despite his disadvantageous position, directed a
brilliantly executed attack to destroy ten hostile fighters and two bombers.
By his outstanding ability as a leader and an airman, Lieutenant Hanks
contributed materially to the success of our aerial operations in the Pacific
war area, and his valiant devotion to duty in the face of overwhelming odds
reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.
HANLON, BYRON HALL
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Byron Hall Hanlon, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander of the Naval
Underwater Group, in action on 17 February 1945, during the pre-invasion
assault operations against Iwo Jima, in the Volcano Islands. Captain Hanlon's
conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of
the United States.
HANSEN, ALFRED LAWRENCE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Alfred Lawrence Hansen, Chief Machinist's Mate, U.S. Navy, for exceptional
courage, presence of mind, and devotion to duty and disregard for his personal
safety during the Japanese attack on the United States Pacific Fleet in Pearl
Harbor, Territory of Hawaii, 7 December 1941. Wounded in the severe enemy
bombing and strafing attack on the Naval Air Station, Ford Island, Pearl
Harbor, Chief Machinist's Mate Hansen, though wounded, continued to assist
Ensign D. A. Singleton, USNR, in securing fuel lines a the air station, thus
helping free the tanker, U.S.S. NEOSHO, that was fueling the station. The
conduct of Chief Machinist's Mate Hansen throughout this action reflects great
credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
Born: May 21, 1898 at Cruckston, Minnesota
Home Town: Cruckston, Minnesota
HANSEN, JAMES R.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to James R. Hansen, 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. MORRISON (DD-560), in action against the enemy on 4 May
1945, at Okinawa, in the Ryukyu Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping
with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
HANSEN, SIGURD
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Sigurd Hansen, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding
Officer of the Destroyer Escort U.S.S. DENNIS (DE-405), in a surface
engagement with a large task force of the Japanese Fleet near the Island of
Samar in Philippine waters during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944.
By his own courage and gallant determination, he gave encouragement to his
officers and men during this crucial ordeal. His heroic actions have brought
great distinction upon himself and his conduct throughout was in keeping with
the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
HANSON, ALDEN WILBUR
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Alden Wilbur Hanson, 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 5 - 6 June 1942. Defying extreme danger from a concentrated
barrage of anti-aircraft fire and fierce fighter opposition, Ensign Hanson,
with utter disregard for his own personal safety, participated in persistent
and vigorous attacks against the Japanese invasion fleet. His gallant
intrepidity and loyal devotion to the accomplishment of a vastly important
objective contributed in large measure to the success achieved by our forces
and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
HANSON, CLIFFORD A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Clifford A. Hanson, 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. Pay Clerk Hanson
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 Pay Clerk Hanson
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)
Home Town: Alexandria, Minnesota
HANSON, EUGENE R.
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Eugene R. Hanson, 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 EIGHT (VT-8),
embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-8), in action against enemy Japanese
forces in the Eastern Solomon Islands on 24 August 1942. 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: May 16, 1917 at Burlington, Iowa
Home Town: Denton, Texas
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HANSON, EUGENE R.
(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 Eugene R. Hanson, 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 EIGHT (VT-8), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-8), in
action against enemy Japanese forces in the Solomon Islands during the period
16 September 1942 through 23 October 1942. On 16 September, as part of a group
which launched an attack against hostile surface units off Gizo Island,
Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Hanson contributed to the scoring of a torpedo hit
on a Japanese cruiser. On 24 September, in company with two dive bombers, he
participated in a raid against enemy destroyers which were putting troops
ashore at Cape Esperance and scored one probable hit with a 500-pound bomb. On
10 October he piloted a Torpedo Plane in a striking force against two light
cruisers and four destroyers about 170 miles off Guadalcanal. On 12 October,
while attacking two heavy cruisers, he scored a direct hit on one of the enemy
vessels. During a night attack on 23 October, he released twelve 100-pound
bombs on Japanese troop concentrations to the west of our lines on
Guadalcanal. Shot down by enemy gunfire during this engagement, he effected a
successful crash-landing about one mile off shore, thus enabling himself and
his crew to swim to a point beyond our front lines. Lieutenant, Junior Grade,
Hanson'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. 315 (June 1943)
Born: May 16, 1917 at Burlington, Iowa
Home Town: Denton, Texas
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HARDEN, HUBERT B.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Hubert B. Harden, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Fighter Plane, in action on 28 July 1945, while deployed over Kure, Japan. His
outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HARDISON, OSBORNE BENNETT
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Osborne Bennett Hardison, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of this profession as Commanding Officer of
the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during the engagement with
enemy Japanese forces north of the Santa Cruz Islands on 26 October 1942. His
conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of
the United States.
HARDY, ROBERT JAMES
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert James Hardy, 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. HALFORD (DD-480), in action against enemy Japanese forces
at Surigao Strait during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands
on the night of 24 - 25 October 1944. When PT Boats opened fire on a
formidable column of Japanese ships, Commander Hardy placed the HALFORD in an
advantageous striking position despite extremely hazardous conditions, and,
launching his deadly torpedoes with precise timing in a sudden, coordinated
attack, surprised the enemy and rendered him vulnerable to smashing blows from
our heavy naval units. Subsequently retiring without damage from the furious
engagement which resulted in the sinking of two battleships and three
destroyers before effective fire could be brought to bear upon our task force,
Commander Hardy contributed in large measure to eliminating an imminent and
dangerous threat to our transports and other ships in Leyte Gulf. Commander
Hardy's high professional skill, forceful leadership, and gallant devotion to
duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 343 (October 1945)
Home Town: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
HARDY, WILLIS EVERETT
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Willis Everett Hardy, 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 SEVENTEEN (VF-17),
embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-12), in action on 6 April 1945, while
deployed over Okinawa in the Ryukyu 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.
HARLFINGER, FREDERICK J., II
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Frederick J. Harlfinger, II, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry
and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as
Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TRIGGER (SS-237) on the NINTH War Patrol of
that submarine during the period 23 March 1944 to 20 May 1944, in enemy
controlled waters. In spite of extremely strong escort screens, Lieutenant
Commander Harlfinger skillfully avoided detection and penetrated these escort
screens, and through his daring and aggressive determination, delivered
torpedo attacks against heavily escorted enemy shipping and successfully sank
four enemy passenger-freighters and an enemy destroyer totaling 18,050 tons.
His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy
of the United States.
Born: September 14, 1913 at Albany, New York
Home Town: Berbenfields, East Nassau, New York
Awards: Navy Cross (WWII), 3@ Silver Stars (WWII), Bronze Star w/V
*HARMON, LEONARD ROY
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Leonard Roy Harmon, Mess Attendant First Class, U.S. Navy,
for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action against the enemy
while serving on board the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO (CA-38), during
an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island in the Solomons on
the night of on November 12 and 13 1942. His grim perseverance and relentless
devotion to duty in the face of certain death were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave up his own
life in the defense of his country.
Born: January 21, 1917 at Cuero, Texas
Home Town: Houston, Texas
HARPER, JOHN FRANK, JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John Frank Harper, Jr., 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. INGRAHAM (DD-694), in action against the enemy on 4 May
1945, at Okinawa in the Ryukyu Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping
with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
HARRAL, BROOKS, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Brooks Harral, Jr., Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
the U.S.S. RAY (SS-271), on the FOURTH War Patrol of that submarine during the
period 23 April 1944 to 14 June 1944, in enemy controlled waters. Commander
Harral courageously and skillfully maneuvered his vessel into position from
which to strike the enemy, and in the face of heavy countermeasures by enemy
surface vessels and aircraft; he aggressively attacked, sinking six enemy
ships totaling 42,500 tons. In addition, he successfully accomplished an
important reconnaissance mission securing valuable information on enemy force.
Commander Harral handled his ship expertly to avoid enemy countermeasures and
brought her safely to port without damage to ship or injury to crew. By his
brave actions and conduct, perseverance, and complete devotion to duty,
Commander Harral reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
*HARRIS, ALBERT THOMAS
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Albert Thomas Harris, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of
his profession while serving on board the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO
(CA-38), during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island in
the Solomons on the night of on November 12 and 13 1942. His grim perseverance
and relentless devotion to duty in the face of certain death were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly
gave up his own life in the defense of his country.
Born: August 29, 1915 at Madison, Georgia
Home Town: Madison, Georgia
HARRIS, CECIL ELWOOD
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Cecil Elwood Harris, 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 EIGHTEEN (VF-18),
embarked from the U.S.S. INTREPID (CV-11), in action on 29 October 1944, while
deployed over Luzon, 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.
HARRIS, FRED R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Fred R. Harris, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Flight Deck Officer
on board the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. FRANKLIN (CV-13), which was striking the
Japanese home islands in the vicinity of Kobe, Japan, on 19 March 1945. When
his ship was hit in an enemy air attack, a series of violent explosions of the
vessel's own bombs, rockets, and ammunition followed which threatened
destruction of the ship. Immediately, in the face of raging fires, continuous
explosions, and further enemy air attacks, Lieutenant Harris courageously led
parties of men in determined and valiant fire fighting on the exposed flight
deck and demolished gallery deck, continuing until the fires were out. He also
led a group which jettisoned a large quantity of hot ammunition from enclosed
mounts and flooded ready service magazines. The heroic efforts of Lieutenant
Harris were instrumental in saving the ship and were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Waco, Texas
HARRIS, HUGH K.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Hugh K. Harris, Gunner's Mate Second Class, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as Captain of the
Number 4 40- mm. Quadruple Mount on board the Battleship U.S.S. SOUTH DAKOTA
(BB-57), in action against the enemy on 19 July 1944, in the Pacific War Area.
His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy
of the United States.
*HARRIS, J. D., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to J. D. Harris, Jr., Pharmacist's Mate Second Class, U.S. Navy
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while
serving as a Medical Corpsman with the First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST
Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Okinawa in the
Ryukyu Islands, on 3 May 1945. By his courage and efforts in behalf of others
at great risk to his own life, Pharmacist's Mate Second Class Harris
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.
HARRIS, MORGAN H.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Morgan H. Harris, Ensign, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
the U.S.S. AHR, in action against the enemy on 29 May 1944, while deployed in
the Atlantic Ocean. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the Navy of the United States.
HARRIS, ROBERT MARTIN
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert Martin Harris, 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 Division Leader in Fighting Squadron
SEVEN (VF-7), embarked from the U.S.S. HANCOCK (CV-19), in action against
enemy Japanese forces in Philippine waters during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on
25 October 1944. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Harris' outstanding courage, daring
airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service.
HARRIS, VINCENT HENRY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Vincent Henry Harris, 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), and deployed over Samar in the
Philippine Islands, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Air
Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. Ensign Harris gallantly pursued and
pressed home a daring attack on an enemy ship in the face of an intense and
accurate barrage of fire, including projectiles from the main batteries of the
enemy vessel. With bold determination and utter disregard for his own safety,
he drove home his attack which resulted in serious damage to a major enemy
warship. His 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. 340 (July 1945)
*HARRIS, WILLIAM HUGH, JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to William Hugh Harris, Jr., 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-Bombing Squadron
EIGHTY-THREE (VFB-83), embarked from the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), on 18 July 1945,
while deployed over Yokosuka, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined
skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.
HARRISON, HOWARD HOUSTON
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Howard Houston Harrison, Ensign, 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 Japanese forces on 28 July 1945 while deployed over
Kure Harbor, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all
times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.
HARRISON, WILLIAM E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to William E. Harrison, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism in action as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane, while
participating in aerial combat against the Japanese Fleet in the Marianas
Islands, during the First Battle of the Philippine Sea, on 20 June 1944. By
his airmanship and cool courage in the face of tremendous odds, Lieutenant
Harrison contributed materially to the infliction of extensive and costly
damage on the Japanese Fleet in this decisive engagement and upheld the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
*HARRISON, WILLIAM HENRY
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to William Henry Harrison, Radioman Second Class, U.S. Navy
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving the
Submarine Chaser SC SIX HUNDRED NINETY-NINE (SC-699), in action against the
enemy on 27 May 1944, at Biak, Indonesia. His conduct throughout was in
keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
*HART, PATRICK HENRY (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Patrick Henry Hart (0-078621), Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier- based Navy Torpedo Plane and Executive Officer of Torpedo
Squadron THREE (VT-3), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), during the
"Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 June
1942. Participating in a Torpedo Plane assault against Japanese naval units,
Lieutenant Hart, in the face of tremendous anti-aircraft fire and overwhelming
fighter opposition, pressed home his attack to a point where it became
relatively certain that, in order to accomplish his mission, he would probably
sacrifice his life. Undeterred by the grave possibilities of such a hazardous
offensive, he carried on, with extreme disregard for his own personal safety,
until his squadron scored direct hits on two enemy aircraft carriers. His self
sacrificing gallantry and fortitude 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. 309 (December 1942)
HARTGRAVES, VERN S.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Vern S. Hartgraves, Aviation Machinist's Mate First Class, U.S. Navy
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while
serving a Member of the Crew of a Navy Patrol Bomber in a Patrol-Bombing
Squadron, in action on 9 May 1945, against enemy forces on Japanese-held
Marcus Island. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times
inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States
Naval Service.
HARTMAN, IRVIN S.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Irvin S. Hartman, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and
intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as
Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. S-41 (SS-146), on the FOURTH War Patrol of
that submarine during the period 7 August 1942 to 2 September 1942, in enemy
controlled waters of New Britain-New Ireland War Area. On 20 August Lieutenant
Commander Hartman made a night surface attack on an enemy convoy and, after
scoring hits on the enemy vessels, attacked with gunfire. Again, on 23 August,
he displayed great tactical skill in a successful attack and, through his
experience and sound judgment 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. 331 (October 1944)
HARTVIG, DONALD H.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Donald H. Hartvig, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Commander of a Navy
Patrol Plane in Patrol-Bombing Squadron ONE HUNDRED EIGHT (VPB-108), in action
against enemy forces on Japanese-held Marcus Island on 9 May 1945. Flying
through extremely hazardous weather to participate in a strike against this
enemy stronghold, Lieutenant Hartvig braved intense and accurate antiaircraft
fire from enemy gun emplacements and rifle fire which riddled his plane to
press home his attack at a minimum altitude. Gallantly fighting his plane, he
assisted in the destruction of two grounded enemy planes, strafed and bombed
enemy installations with highly damaging results and inflicted severe
casualties on hostile troops. His skilled airmanship, indomitable fighting
spirit and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
HARTWIG, GLENN ROY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Glenn Roy Hartwig, 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. RUSSELL (DD-414), during the engagement with enemy
Japanese forces north of the Santa Cruz Islands on 26 October 1942. After
enemy bombs and torpedoes had seriously damaged the task force carrier
resulting in raging fires and a dangerous list on that vessel, Commander
Hartwig skillfully brought his ship alongside in a most seamanlike manner to
assist in fighting fires on board with every means at his command. Although
driven away by further enemy air attacks, he repeatedly returned to the side
of the stricken carrier to continue rendering effective assistance. Later he
maneuvered in the vicinity of the ship to evacuate and rescue survivors. His
gallantry and intrepidity in action were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 314 (May 1943)
Born: March 30, 1904 at Detroit, Michigan
Home Town: Highland Park, Michigan
*HARWOOD, BRUCE LAWRENCE
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Bruce Lawrence Harwood (0-075196), 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 EIGHT (VT-8), embarked
from the U.S.S. SARATOGA (CV-3), during action against enemy Japanese forces
in the Solomon Islands Campaign on 24 August 1942. Leading his squadron in an
unsupported aerial torpedo raid against a Japanese task force, Lieutenant
Harwood pressed home his attack through a bursting hail of fire from hostile
anti-aircraft batteries. He contributed to the relentless fighting spirit and
aggressive courage which enabled his squadron to score one certain hit and two
estimated hits on an enemy aircraft carrier. His superb airmanship and
unyielding devotion to duty aided greatly in the defeat of a persistent foe
and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
Authority: Serial 24 (January 9, 1943)
Born: February 5, 1910 at Claremont, California
Home Town: Claremont, California
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII), Purple Heart
*HARWOOD, BRUCE LAWRENCE
(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 Bruce Lawrence Harwood (0-075196),
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 EIGHT (VT-8), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-8), in the
Guadalcanal Area during the period from 20 September to 5 October 1942.
Leading an attack group of bombers in the face of adverse flying conditions,
Lieutenant Harwood located a force of enemy destroyers proceeding to land
troops and supplies on Guadalcanal. Despite violent maneuvering by the enemy,
he and his men scored at least one and probably more hits on the Japanese
ships. On 4 October he led another attack group of Torpedo Planes against an
enemy force of a light cruiser and three destroyers. In spite of bad
visibility, and in the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire, he pressed home the
attack, scoring two positive, and one possible hit on the cruiser. The
following night he and his bombers again sought out the enemy and, flying on
instruments through violent tropical storms to Rekata Bay, bombed the shore
installations at that point, in spite of fierce opposition by Japanese fighter
planes which rushed to the attack. Lieutenant Harwood's outstanding courage
and intrepid leadership contributed to the high morale of his squadron and to
the successful defense of our base on Guadalcanal.
ComSoPac, Serial 197 (January 18, 1943)
Born: February 5, 1910 at Claremont, California
Home Town: Claremont, California
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII), Purple Heart
*HARWOOD, BRUCE LAWRENCE
(Third Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting a Second Gold
Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Bruce
Lawrence Harwood (0-075196), Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism
and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as Air
Officer on board the U.S.S. PRINCETON (CVL-23), when that vessel was attacked
and sunk by enemy Japanese aircraft off the east coast of Luzon during the
Second Battle of the Philippine Sea on 24 October 1944. Immediately after a
hostile dive bomber penetrated our screen and scored a direct hit on his
carrier, starting raging fires and a series of violent explosions and killing
or wounding many members of the crew, Commander Harwood courageously remained
at his post on the port side of the bridge structure to direct fire-fighting
measures despite the resulting confusion and danger of further imminent
detonations. Then, on his own initiative, he fearlessly entered the hangar
deck in the face of intense flames rapidly spreading to a torpedo and bomb
stowage to determine the extent of damage and control the fires. Working
diligently throughout the day, he always penetrated the most hazardous areas
ahead of the others and, when a number of his men were overcome by heat or
exhaustion during the operations, personally removed them to a place of
safety. Determined to save the stricken ship, he was valiantly carrying on his
tireless efforts when a bomb stowage aft of the hanger exploded, taking his
life. His inspiring leadership, outstanding fortitude and great personal valor
in the face of tremendous odds reflect the highest credit upon Commander
Harwood and the United States Naval Service.
Authority: Serial 014 (November 17, 1944)
Born: February 5, 1910 at Claremont, California
Home Town: Claremont, California
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII), Purple Heart
HASCHKE, MARVIN M.
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Marvin M. Haschke, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Scouting Plane in Scouting Squadron TWO (VS-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.
Ensign Haschke 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.
Born: December 5, 1916 at Austin, Texas
Home Town: Austin, Texas
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HASCHKE, MARVIN M.
(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 Marvin M. Haschke, Ensign, U.S.
Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy
while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane of Scouting
Squadron TWO (VS-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. His outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty
were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
Born: December 5, 1916 at Austin, Texas
Home Town: Austin, Texas
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HASKINS, ENRIQUE D'HAMEL
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Enrique D'Hamel Haskins, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and
intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as
Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. GUITARRO (SS-363), on the FIRST War Patrol of
that submarine during the period 7 May 1944 to 27 June 1944, in enemy
controlled waters of the Southwest Pacific. Through his experience and sound
judgment Lieutenant Commander Haskins 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.
Born: February 12, 1912 at Brooklyn, New York
Home Town: Brooklyn, New York
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HASKINS, ENRIQUE D'HAMEL
(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 Enrique D'Hamel Haskins,
Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
the U.S.S. GUITARRO (SS-363), on the SECOND War Patrol of that submarine
during the period 21 July 1944 to 8 September 1944, in enemy controlled waters
of the South China Sea. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant
Commander Haskins 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.
Born: February 12, 1912 at Brooklyn, New York
Home Town: Brooklyn, New York
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HASKINS, ENRIQUE D'HAMEL
(Third Award)
Synopsis:
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 Enrique D'Hamel Haskins,
Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
the U.S.S. GUITARRO (SS-363), on the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine during
the period 8 October 1944 to 16 November 1944, in enemy controlled waters in
the South China Sea. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant
Commander Haskins 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.
Born: February 12, 1912 at Brooklyn, New York
Home Town: Brooklyn, New York
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
*HASTINGS, BURDEN ROBERT
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Burden Robert Hastings, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as
Commander of a Navy Patrol Plane and Commanding Officer of Patrol Squadron ONE
HUNDRED ONE (VP-101), Patrol Wing TEN (PatWing-10), in action against enemy
Japanese naval forces located near Jolo, in the Philippine Islands, on the
morning of 27 December 1941. Pressing home his attack in the face of
overwhelming air and antiaircraft opposition, Lieutenant Hastings led his
formation, maneuvering his bombers to pass clear of lower clouds until the
objective was reached and they had dropped their bombs, inflicting heavy
damage upon several enemy war and merchant ships. Lieutenant Hastings'
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. 304 (July 1942)
Home Town: Washington, D.C.
HASTINGS, WILLIAM WALTON
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to William Walton Hastings, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism
and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer
of Commanding Officer, Section Base Area, Mariveles Harbor, Bataan, Philippine
Islands, on the night of 8 - 9 April 1942. Commander Hastings' efficient
organization and direction of a mixed force of American and Filipino enlisted
men in evacuating personnel and supplies to Corregidor, and in the demolition
of living quarters and utilities, and the demolition of the U.S.S. BITTERN and
the Dry Dock DEWEY, in accordance with a well conceived and executed plan,
made this difficult operation possible in spite of darkness, demolition
explosions, and reports of approaching Japanese. The conduct of Commander
Hastings 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. 307 (October 1942)
Born: February 18, 1889 at Geneva, Nebraska
Home Town: Santa Rosa, California
HATHAWAY, AMOS TOWNSEND
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Amos Townsend Hathaway, 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. HEERMAN (DD-532), in a surface engagement with a large
task force of the Japanese Fleet near the Island of Samar in Philippine waters
during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. His conduct throughout was
in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States. By
his own courage and gallant determination, he gave encouragement to his
officers and men during this crucial ordeal. His heroic actions have brought
great distinction upon himself and his conduct throughout was in keeping with
the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: December 5, 1913 at Pueblo, Colorado
Home Town: Chevy Chase, Maryland
HAWES, FREDERICK WILLIAM
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Frederick William Hawes, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism
and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Officer in Charge
of Forward Repair Party Number FOUR aboard the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S.
LEXINGTON (CV-2), following the attack on that carrier during the Battle of
the Coral Sea on 8 May 1942. In order to effect the rescue of wounded officers
and men, Lieutenant Hawes repeatedly led his repair party into gas-filled
compartments in the face of frequent explosions and personally conducted
rescue squads through areas of imminent danger. Rallying from two lapses into
unconsciousness and with utter disregard for his own safety, he was
responsible for the rescue of at least 20 of the wounded. His courageous
conduct and strict devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 307 (Oct 1942)
Born: August 11, 1910 at Chicago, Illinois
Home Town: Centralia, Washington
HAWES, RICHARD ELLINGTON
(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 Richard Ellington Hawes,
Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished
service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Minesweeper
U.S.S. PIGEON (AM-47), in combat against enemy Japanese forces during the
bombardment of Cavite Navy Yard, Philippine Islands, on 10 December 1941. The
conduct of Lieutenant Commander Hawes throughout this action reflects great
credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
Born: February 21, 1894 at Thomson, Georgia
Home Town: Thomson, Georgia
Awards: Navy Cross (S-51 Rescue), Navy Cross (WWII)
HAWKINS, ARTHUR RAY
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Arthur Ray Hawkins, 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 THIRTY-ONE
(VF-31), embarked from the U.S.S. CABOT (CVL-28), in action on 13 September
1944, while deployed over the Philippines. 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 12, 1922 at Zavalla, Texas
Home Town: Lufkin, Texas
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HAWKINS, ARTHUR RAY
(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 Arthur Ray Hawkins, 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 THIRTY-ONE (VF-31), embarked from the U.S.S. CABOT
(CVL-28), in action on 21 September 1944, while deployed over the Philippines.
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 12, 1922 at Zavalla, Texas
Home Town: Lufkin, Texas
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HAWKINS, ARTHUR RAY
(Third Award)
Synopsis:
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 Arthur Ray Hawkins,
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 action on 24 July 1945, while deployed over Kure, Japan. 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 12, 1922 at Zavalla, Texas
Home Town: Lufkin, Texas
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HAYLER, ROBERT WARD
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert Ward Hayler, 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. HONOLULU (CL-48), during operations against enemy
Japanese forces in enemy-controlled waters during the Battle of Tassafaronga
on the night of 30 November 1942. Captain Hayler valiantly fought his ship
during this action in which several of our vessels were damaged, and
maintained his position in the formation, firing effectively with every
weapons at his command. His actions were direct factors in the destruction of
several Japanese ships and contributed to the turning back of the enemy
forces. Captain Hayler'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. 315 (June 1943)
Born: June 7, 1891 at Sandusky, Ohio
Home Town: Muncie, Indiana
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HAYLER, ROBERT WARD
(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 Ward Hayler, 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. HONOLULU (CL-48),
during operations in Kula Gulf, Solomon Islands, on 5 and 6 July 1943.
Commanding his warship during landing operations on New Georgia island and
participating in an engagement with numerically superior hostile naval forces,
Captain Hayler, through his direction of gun and torpedo fire, contributed
materially to the sinking and severe damage of all the enemy vessels. During
the previous day, as part of a task force, he supported landing operations on
New Georgia island, and, in the face of intense enemy fire, in
submarine-infested waters, he effectively bombarded enemy shore batteries.
Captain Hayler'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. 321 (December 1943)
Born: June 7, 1891 at Sandusky, Ohio
Home Town: Muncie, Indiana
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HAYLER, ROBERT WARD
(Third Award)
Synopsis:
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 Robert Ward Hayler, Rear
Admiral, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the
line of his profession as Commander, Cruiser Division TWELVE, in action
against enemy Japanese forces at Surigao Strait during the Battle for Leyte
Gulf in the Philippine Islands on the night of 24 - 25 October 1944. This
successful attack contributed in large measure to eliminating an imminent and
dangerous threat to our transports and other ships in Leyte Gulf. Rear Admiral
Hayler's high professional skill, forceful leadership, and gallant devotion to
duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
Born: June 7, 1891 at Sandusky, Ohio
Home Town: Muncie, Indiana
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HAYNES, LEON WILDER
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Leon Wilder Haynes, 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 Fighting Squadron TWO (VF-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.
Ensign Haynes pressed home, in the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire, a
vigorous and determined dive bombing attack on enemy ships, and as a result of
this attack at least one enemy ship was sunk. 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.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 314 (May 1943)
Born: February 25, 1914 at Billings, Montana
Home Town: Billings, Montana
HAYS, WESLEY MYRON
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Wesley Myron Hays, 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-Bombing Squadron TEN
(VFB-10), embarked from the U.S.S. INTREPID (CV-11), on 7 April 1945, while
deployed over the East China 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.
*HAYTER, HUBERT M.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Hubert M. Hayter, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession
as a Damage Control Officer aboard the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. NEW ORLEANS
(CA-32), in action against the Japanese after the torpedoing of his ship in
enemy-controlled waters during the Battle of Tassafaronga on the night of 30
November 1942. Lieutenant Commander Hayter directed the evacuation of all men
when a torpedo hit exploded the magazine and gasoline storage. Although
rapidly becoming affected by asphyxiating gas, he continued to direct
evacuation and gave his own mask to an affected seaman. After clearing all
compartments, he kept at his duties until overcome. The conduct of Lieutenant
Commander Hayter 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. 328 (July 1944)
Born: October 17, 1901 at Abingdon, Virginia
Home Town: Albert Lea, Minnesota
HAZZARD, WILLIAM H.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to William H. Hazzard, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
the U.S.S. BLENNY (SS-324), on the SECOND War Patrol of that submarine during
the period 8 February 1945 to 27 March 1945, in enemy controlled waters of the
Southwest Pacific. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Hazzard
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.
HEBERT, JOSEPH CARLYLE
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Joseph Carlyle Hebert, 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 NINETEEN (VT-19),
embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), during offensive air operations
against enemy shipping on 5 November 1944, in Manila Bay on the Island of
Luzon, of the Philippine Group. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Hebert's outstanding
courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: September 23, 1922 at Baton Rouge,
Louisiana
Home Town: Dallas, Texas
HECK, EDWARD, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Edward Heck, 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 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 Heck 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.
Born: March 12, 1918 at Carthage, Missouri
Home Town: Carthage, Missouri
HEDERMAN, THOMAS H.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Thomas H. Hederman, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
Destroyer Squadron SIXTY-ONE, in action against the enemy from 27 March 1945
through 19 Mary 1945, off Okinawa, in the Ryukyu Islands. Captain Hederman's
conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of
the United States.
*HEDGES, FRANCIS EARL
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Francis Earl Hedges, 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 embarked from the U.S.S.
BELLEAU WOOD (CVL-24), in action on 19 March 1945, while deployed over Japan.
His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and
in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HEFLIN, EDWARD ALLEN
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Edward Allen Heflin, 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 EIGHTEEN (VB-18), embarked
from the U.S.S. INTREPID (CV-11), during the Second Battle of the Philippine
Sea, on 24 October 1944. The action, in which he was an integral part,
successfully accomplished in the face of intense and accurate anti-aircraft
barrages, removed a serious threat to our ground forces 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.
HEILMANN, LOUIS ANDREW
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Louis Andrew Heilmann, 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 NINETEEN (VB-19),
embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), during offensive air operations
against enemy shipping on 5 November 1944, in Manila Bay on the Island of
Luzon, of the Philippine Group. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Heilmann's
outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: June 13, 1924 at Cincinnati, Ohio
Home Town: Cincinnati, Ohio
HEIM, CARL F., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Carl F. Heim, Jr., Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
in operations against the enemy while serving on the Crew of a Navy Patrol
Plane in Patrol Squadron NINETY-FOUR (VP-94), in action on 28 July 1945, while
deployed over the Inland Sea of Japan. Ensign Heim's outstanding courage and
determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HEIM, ELBERT S.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Elbert S. Heim, 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 Composite Squadron NINE (VC-9),
embarked from the U.S.S. BOGUE (CVE-9), in action against an enemy submarine
in the Atlantic Ocean on 4 October 1943. Flying to the support of a bomber
which was in contact with four surfaced hostile submarines, Lieutenant, Junior
Grade, Heim commenced firing at a range of two thousand feet and came in
through a barrage of deadly cross-fire from the enemy vessels, strafing the
largest and most heavily armed submarine until he was within fifty feet of his
target. After a skillful second run in which the enemy's anti-aircraft battery
was silenced, he vigorously strafed two of the surfaced U-boats, making them
easy targets for unopposed bombing attacks which resulted in the probable
destruction of one of the hostile vessels. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Heim'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. 326 (May 1944)
Born: April 8, 1920 at Alba, Texas
Home Town: Bossier, Louisiana
HELM, DONALD F.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Donald F. Helm, 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 NINETEEN (VB-19) embarked from the U.S.S.
LEXINGTON (CV-16), while assigned to strike major Japanese Fleet Units on 25
October 1944, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, in the Philippine Islands.
Courageous and skillful in the face of enemy air opposition and extremely
intense and continuous fire from hostile anti-aircraft batteries, he boldly
pressed home his attack. Lieutenant Helm's inspiring courage, daring tactics,
and fearless devotion to duty in the face of hazardous flying conditions
reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: December 27, 1916 at Crandan, Wisconsin
Home Town: Corpus Christi, Texas
HELMUTH, LAWRENCE EDWARD
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Lawrence Edward Helmuth, 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 ELEVEN (VT-11),
embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-12), during the Battle for Leyte Gulf on
25 October 1944, 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: October 1, 1920 at Washington, D.C.
Home Town: Lakewood, Ohio
HELZ, EUGENE RAYMOND
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Eugene Raymond Helz, Ensign, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving with a
landing party in the Southwest Pacific. His conduct throughout was in keeping
with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: May 12, 1920 at St. Cloud, Minnesota
Home Town: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
HEMBY, MERRILL J.
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Merrill J. Hemby, 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 EIGHTY-FIVE (VB-85),
embarked from the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against Japanese forces on 18
July 1945, while deployed over Yokosuka, Japan. His outstanding courage and
determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HEMBY, MERRILL J.
(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 Merrill J. Hemby, 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
EIGHTY-FIVE (VB-85), embarked from the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against
Japanese forces on 24 July 1945, while deployed over Kure Harbor, Japan. His
outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HENCEY, CLARENCE
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Clarence Hencey, Watertender First Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism and devotion to duty while serving on board the Destroyer U.S.S.
PHELPS (DD-360), in action against the enemy on 18 June 1944, at Saipan, in
the Marianas Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: June 12, 1912 at Greene River, Utah
Home Town: Springfield, Missouri
HENDERSON, CHARLES M.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Charles M. Henderson, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity
and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer
of the U.S.S. BLUEFISH (SS-222), on the SIXTH War Patrol of that submarine
during the period 22 July to 14 September 1944, in enemy controlled waters of
the Pacific War Area. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander
Henderson 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.
Born: April 4, 1911 at Atlanta, Georgia
Home Town: Seattle, Washington
*HENKEL, DONALD WESLEY
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Donald Wesley Henkel, 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 Fighting Squadron TWENTY-THREE
(VF-23), embarked from the U.S.S. LANGLEY (CV-27), in action on 29 March 1945,
while deployed over Kyushu, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined
skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.
HENRIKSON, HOWARD RUSSELL
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Howard Russell Henrikson, 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 EIGHTY-SEVEN
(VT-87), embarked from the U.S.S. TICONDEROGA (CV-14), in action on 24 July
1945, while deployed over the Inland Sea of Japan. His outstanding courage and
determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HENRY, WALTER FRANKLIN
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Walter Franklin Henry, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, 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 forces in the Pacific War Area when his ship
was attacked by eighteen Japanese bombing planes on 20 February 1942.
Returning from a scouting mission in his twin-engine scout-bomber, Lieutenant
Henry found his ship under attack. Although his airplane was slower and less
maneuverable than those of the fighting squadron engaging the enemy aircraft,
in the face of heavy antiaircraft fire, Lieutenant Henry intercepted the
formation of nine enemy aircraft and succeeded in shooting down one
twin-engine bomber. Lieutenant Henry'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. 304 (July 1942))
Born: November 11, 1911 at Butler, Missouri
Home Town: Butler, Missouri
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HENRY, WALTER FRANKLIN
(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 Walter Franklin Henry, Lieutenant,
U.S. Navy, 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
Henry, 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
Henry'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: November 11, 1911 at Butler, Missouri
Home Town: Butler, Missouri
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HENRY, WILLIAM EARL
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to William Earl Henry, 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 SEVENTY-NINE (VF(N)-79),
in action on 12 October 1944, while deployed over Formosa. 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: January 20, 1920 at Bakersfield,
California
Home Town: Bakersfield, California
HENSEL, KARL G.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Karl G. Hensel, Captain, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
the U.S.S. SWORDFISH (SS-193), on the TENTH War Patrol of that submarine
during the period 26 December 1943 to 7 February 1944, in enemy Japanese home
waters off the main island Honshu. During this daring and dangerous patrol,
Captain Hensel pursued and attacked an enemy convoy, sinking or damaging enemy
vessels totaling 20,000 tons. Throughout these attacks, made in spite of
adverse weather conditions, outstanding ship control and the performance of a
well-trained crew enabled his ship to return to port. Captain Hensel's conduct
throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the
United States.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 343 (October 1945)
Born: November 4, 1901 at Baltimore, Maryland
Home Town: Baltimore, Maryland
HERMAN, SAUL WILLIAM
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Saul William Herman, 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 Fighting Squadron TWENTY (VF-20), embarked from the U.S.S.
ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during the Battle for Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944, 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.
HERN, JOSEPH, JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Joseph Hern, 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 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. By his superb flying ability, indomitable fighting spirit and
cool courage, maintained at great personal risk, Lieutenant, Junior Grade,
Hern 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.
Born: July 25, 1919 at Redondo Beach,
California
Home Town: Lawndale, California
HERRICK, ROBERT FRANK
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert Frank Herrick, Chief Specialist, 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. DOROTHEA L. DIX during the assault on and
occupation of French Morocco from November 8 to 11, 1942. Preceding the
assault on Safi on 8 November Herrick skillfully maneuvered his boat in
complete darkness from the transport area eight miles off the coast into
position near a landing beach, from which he guided incoming waves of assault
troops by prescribed signals to their proper destination. Despite the delay in
arrival of the. initial boat waves, the imminent danger of attack from hostile
craft, and fire from other enemy forces, Herrick gallantly held his position
for nine perilous hours until his mission was completed.
Born: June 2, 1913 at Denver, Colorado
Home Town: Paonia, Colorado
HERVEY, CAMERON E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Cameron E. Hervey, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Combat Plane, in action on 28 July 1945, while deployed
over the Inland Sea of Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill
were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
HESS, JOHN B.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John B. Hess, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
the U.S.S. POMFRET (SS-391), on the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine during
the period 1 November 1944 to 15 December 1944, in enemy controlled waters of
the Luzon Straits, in the Philippine Islands. Through his experience and sound
judgment Commander Hess 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.
Born: April 25, 1914 at Bellinham, Washington
Home Town: Portland, Oregon
HESSEL, EDWARD WILLIAM
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Edward William Hessel, Lieutenant Commander, 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 EIGHTY-TWO (VF-82),
embarked from the U.S.S. BENNINGTON (CV-20), in action on 7 April 1945, while
deployed over the East China 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.
HESSON, JAMES FRANK
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to James Frank Hesson (2432686), Aviation Machinist's Mate First Class, U.S.
Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving
as a Navy Pilot attached to Marine Fighting Squadron TWO HUNDRED ELEVEN
(VMF-211), during the defense of Wake Island against vastly superior enemy
Japanese forces on 23 December 1941. Arming himself with a sub-machine gun and
grenades in spite of wounds previously sustained, Aviation Machinist's Mate
First Class Hesson joined the fight against enemy landing forces after all
American aircraft had been destroyed. Although again wounded by rifle fire and
grenade fragments, he single- handedly drove back two concerted rushed by
hostile troops, killing several of the invaders and, by his valiant action,
prevented the enemy from over-running the flank of his own lines. Aviation
Machinist's Mate First Class Hesson's indomitable fighting spirit, unfaltering
courage and persevering determination in the face of insuperable odds
prolonged the gallant defense of Wake Island during the initial phase of the
war, and his valiant devotion to duty throughout sustained and enhanced the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HEWITT, HENRY KENT
(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 Henry Kent Hewitt, Vice Admiral,
U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of
his profession as Commander of the Western Task Force at North Africa, during
November, 1942. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Awards: Navy Cross (WWI), Navy Cross
(WWII)
HEYLER, ROMAYN F.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Romayn F. Heyler, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as
Commander of a Navy PBY Patrol Plane in Patrol-Bombing Squadron ONE HUNDRED
ELEVEN (VPB-111), in action on 1 June 1945, over Singapore. On this date
Lieutenant (j.g.) Heyler's Patrol Bomber teamed joined a second PBY for a
daylight strike against enemy installations. During the bombing attack, the
other Bomber was badly damaged and Lieutenant (j.g.) Heyler flew through heavy
enemy fire to protect its withdrawal from the area. During the escape from the
target area, a squadron of enemy fighters attacked the two Navy Patrol Planes,
and Lieutenant (j.g.) Heyler's crew shot down one enemy fighter and damaged
several others while escorting their squadron mates safely back to base.
Lieutenant (j.g.) Heyler's outstanding courage and determined skill were at
all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.
HIGGINS, JOHN MARTIN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John Martin Higgins, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander, Destroyer
Division 23, engaged in the New Georgia Islands Operations against enemy
Japanese forces in the Solomon Islands Area from 30 June to 13 July 1943.
Commander Higgins' conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: August 13, 1899 at Madison, Wisconsin
Home Town: Madison, Wisconsin
HIGH, PAUL LAVERNE
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Paul Laverne High, 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. BRYANT (DD-665), in action against enemy Japanese forces
at Surigao Strait during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands
on the night of 24 - 25 October 1944. This successful attack contributed in
large measure to eliminating an imminent and dangerous threat to our
transports and other ships in Leyte Gulf. Commander High's high professional
skill, forceful leadership, and gallant devotion to duty were in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: September 24, 1904 at Huntington, West
Virginia
Home Town: Arlington, Virginia
*HILDEBRAND, JAMES T., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to James T. Hildebrand, Jr., Ensign, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as
Commander of a Navy Patrol Plane in Patrol Squadron FORTY (VP-40), Patrol Wing
FOUR, in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Aleutian Islands,
Territory of Alaska, during the period 1 through 15 June 1942. Ensign
Hildebrand made daring, repeated dive-bombing and strafing attacks on Japanese
ships and four-motored patrol planes, constantly seeking out and engaging the
enemy, despite the hazards of severe weather conditions and fire from
antiaircraft and shore batteries, thereby inspiring other members of his
squadron to supreme efforts. He participated in all-night patrols and bombing
attacks on enemy Japanese ships in Kiska harbor and succeeded in scoring a hit
on an enemy transport, all the while defying continuous and heavy antiaircraft
fire. Ensign Hildebrand's outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion
to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval
Service.
Born: September 29, 1914 at Prescott, Arkansas
Home Town: Seattle, Washington
HILL, ANDREW JEWEL
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Andrew Jewel Hill, 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. NICHOLAS (DD-449), during operations in Kula
Gulf, Solomon Islands, on 5 and 6 July 1943. As leader of a task force in
close support of the landing of United States troops at Rice Anchorage on New
Georgia Island, Lieutenant Commander Hill skillfully maneuvered his ship
through restricted submarine-infested waters and effectively bombarded enemy
shore batteries and installations in the face of intense hostile gun and
torpedo fire. Twenty-four hours later, the same task group participated in a
fierce engagement with a numerically superior Japanese naval force and
succeeded in sinking or severely damaging all of the hostile vessels. When a
cruiser of his group was sunk, Lieutenant Commander Hill, returning to the
scene with another destroyer, assisted materially in the hazardous rescue
operations and enabled the NICHOLAS to save approximately three hundred
survivors, despite the fact that the destroyers were forced to abandon their
efforts on three occasions in order to attack and sink two enemy vessels and
badly damage a third as they attempted to escape from the vicinity. Lieutenant
Commander Hill'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. 321 (December 1943)
Born: October 13, 1909 at Poplar Bluff, Missouri
Home Town: Honolulu, Hawaii
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HILL, ANDREW JEWEL
(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 Andrew Jewel Hill, 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.
NICHOLAS (DD-449), during operations in the Solomon Islands Area on the night
of 17 - 18 August 1943. When an enemy Japanese force of four destroyers and a
large number of landing barges endeavored under cover of night to reinforce
the enemy garrisons in the Vella Lavella-Kolombangara Area, Lieutenant
Commander Hill, with exceptional tactical skill under relentless gun and
torpedo fire, led the Nicholas in a brilliant interception of the hostile
vessels. He fought his ship gallantly and contributed to the destruction of
two destroyers, severe damage to a third and the annihilation of a number of
landing barges. Having routed the enemy, he brought his vessel through this
vital engagement unscathed. The superb leadership and unflinching courage
displayed by Commander Hill and the loyal devotion to duty of his crew reflect
great credit upon the United Stats Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 332 (November 1944)
Born: October 13, 1909 at Poplar Bluff, Missouri
Home Town: Honolulu, Hawaii
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HIPPE, KENNETH GEORGE
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Kenneth George Hippe, Lieutenant, 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 THREE (VC-3), embarked
from the U.S.S. KALININ BAY (CVE-68), and deployed over Samar in action
against enemy Japanese forces during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the
Philippine Islands on 25 October 1944. Lieutenant Hippe's outstanding courage,
daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: January 2, 1918 at Burlington, Iowa
Home Town: Burlington, Iowa
HIRSHBERG, ALLEN M.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Allen M. Hirshberg, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding
Officer of the U.S.S. LSM(R) ONE HUNDRED NINETY-FOUR (LSM(R)-194, a close-in
fire support ship, in action against the enemy on 4 May 1945, off the coast of
Okinawa, in the Ryukyu Islands. Lieutenant Hirshberg's conduct throughout was
in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
HISER, WILBUR FLOYD
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Wilbur Floyd Hiser, Lieutenant, 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-ONE (VC-81),
embarked from the U.S.S. NATOMA BAY (CVE-62), while engaging a strong enemy
Japanese Fleet in the Battle of Samar Island off the east coast of the
Philippine Islands on 25 October 1944. 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: August 6, 1919 at Nortonville, Kansas
Home Town: Manhattan, Kansas
*HISSEM, JOSEPH METCALF (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Joseph Metcalf Hissem (0-103993), Ensign, U.S. Navy
(Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while
serving as Radioman/Bombardier of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in
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 Hissem 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: December 31, 1917 at Mt. Carroll, Illinois
Home Town: Galena, Illinois
HITE, ROBERT W.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert W. Hite, 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 action on 24 July 1945, while
deployed over Kure, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were
at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the
United States Naval Service.
*HJELSTROM, JOSEPH GILBERT
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Joseph Gilbert Hjelstrom, 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-Bombing Squadron EIGHTY-FIVE (VFB-85), embarked from the U.S.S.
SHANGRI-LA (CV-38), on 28 July 1945, while deployed over Kure Harbor, Japan.
His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and
in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HOCK, HERMAN EDWARD
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Herman Edward Hock, Chief Boatswain's Mate, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism and devotion to duty in action during the attack on the Light Cruiser
U.S.S. MARBLEHEAD (CL-12), by Japanese enemy bombers on 4 February 1942. Chief
Boatswain's Mate Hock took charge of operations in the upper decks, working
under many varied conditions, he facilitated the evacuation of the wounded,
the fighting of fires, clearing of debris and wreckage, and maintenance of
communications. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: April 27, 1912 at Galveston, Texas
Home Town: Long Beach, California
HODGES, ASHLEY R.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Ashley R. Hodges, 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 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 25 October
1944. 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: February 1, 1920 at Portsmouth, Virginia
Home Town: Norfolk, Virginia
*HODGES, FLOURENOY GLEN (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Flourenoy Glen Hodges (0-085867), 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 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 Hodges 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.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 309 (December 1942)
Born: January 22, 1917 at Statesboro, Georgia
Home Town: Statesboro, Georgia
HOEFFEL, KENNETH MORTIMER
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Kenneth Mortimer Hoeffel, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism
and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer
of an inshore patrol at Manila Bay in the Philippine Islands, during the
period from 11 through 31 December 1941. Commander Hoeffel's conduct
throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the
United States.
HOERNER, HELMUTH ERNEST
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Helmuth Ernest Hoerner, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane of Scouting Squadron FIVE (VS-5), embarked
from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), during the "Air Battle of Midway,"
against enemy Japanese forces on 6 June 1942. With utter disregard for his own
personal safety and in the face of intense antiaircraft fire, Ensign Hoerner
participated in determined and effective bombing and strafing attacks on
fleeing enemy Japanese forces, obtaining a successful hit on one of the enemy
ships. His airmanship, courage and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: December 4, 1914 at West Bend, Wisconsin
Home Town: Ilion, New York
HOFFMAN, CHARLES KEITH
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Charles Keith Hofman, 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 of Bombing Squadron FOURTEEN (VB-14),
embarked from the U.S.S. WASP (CV-18), in action on 26 October 1944, while
deployed over the Sibuyan Sea 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: October 17, 1921 at Hunter, Utah
Home Town: Magna, Utah
HOFFMAN, MELVIN C.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Melvin C. Hoffman, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Combat Plane embarked from the U.S.S. BENNINGTON (CV-20),
in action on 24 July 1945, while deployed over Kure, Japan. His outstanding
courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HOGAN, HERBERT CLAY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Herbert Clay Hogan, 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 Section Leader 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 24 October 1944. Flying as wingman on a
search and attack mission when an enemy task force was sighted and his
division was assigned the Japanese battleship MUSASHI as a target, Lieutenant
Hogan 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 Hogan and the United States Naval Service.
Com2ndCarTaskForPac File C2CTF/P15, Serial
0485 (December 19, 1944)
Born: September 26, 1919 at Portage, Wisconsin
Home Town: Oak Park, Illinois
HOGAN, STEPHEN CLEMENT, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Stephen Clement Hogan, 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 Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron SIX (VB-6),
embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during the "Air Battle of
Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 - 6 June 1942. Defying
extreme danger from concentrated anti- aircraft barrage and powerful fighter
opposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Hogan, with bold determination and
courageous zeal, participated in dive-bombing assaults against Japanese naval
units. Flying at a distance from his own forces which rendered return unlikely
because of probable fuel exhaustion, he pressed home his attacks with extreme
disregard for his own personal safety. His gallant intrepidity and loyal
devotion to duty contributed greatly to the success of our forces and were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: March 15, 1915 at Chicago, Illinois
Home Town: Chicago, Illinois
HOGAN, THOMAS W., JR.
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Thomas W. Hogan, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and
intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as
Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. BONEFISH (SS-223), on the FIRST War Patrol of
that submarine during September and October 1943, in enemy controlled waters
of the South China Sea. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant
Commander Hogan 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.
Born: April 11, 1909 at Canton, Georgia
Home Town: Canton, Georgia
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HOGAN, THOMAS W., JR.
(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 Thomas W. Hogan, Jr., Lieutenant
Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service
in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. BONEFISH
(SS-223), on the SECOND War Patrol of that submarine during the period 12
January 1944 to 15 March 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the South China
Sea. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Hogan
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.
Born: April 11, 1909 at Canton, Georgia
Home Town: Canton, Georgia
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HOGAN, THOMAS W., JR.
(Third Award)
Synopsis:
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 Thomas W. Hogan, Jr.,
Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
the U.S.S. BONEFISH (SS-223), on the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine during
the period 15 April 1944 to 30 May 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the
Celebes Sea. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander
Hogan 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.
Born: April 11, 1909 at Canton, Georgia
Home Town: Canton, Georgia
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HOGDEN, RAYMOND LORAINNE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Raymond Lorainne Hogden, 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 Composite Squadron SEVENTY-FIVE (VC-75),
embarked from the U.S.S. OMMANEY BAY (CVE-79), Bay, in action against enemy
Japanese forces in the Battle off Samar during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, on 25
October 1944. Leading his group in an attack against a heavy enemy cruiser,
Lieutenant Hogden braved an intense barrage in order to divert hostile fire
from his own Task Unit. Following up with a torpedo attack in the face of fire
from Japanese capital ships and destroyers, he scored a hit and sank an enemy
heavy cruiser. His skill and devotion to duty were contributing factors in the
successful invasion of the Philippine Islands and were in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: March 7, 1917 at Ettrick, Wisconsin
Home Town: Ettrick, Wisconsin
HOGE, CHARLES VERNON
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Charles Vernon Hoge, 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 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. His
outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HOGUE, J. C.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to J. C. Hogue, 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 FIFTEEN (VF-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. 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: March 17, 1919 at Dalhart, Texas
Home Town: Overton, Texas
*HOLDER, RANDOLPH MITCHELL (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Randolph Mitchell Holder (0-083112), 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 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 Holder 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.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 309 (December 1942)
Born: September 20, 1918 at Jackson, Mississippi
Home Town: Jackson, Mississippi
HOLE, LEGARE ROMIG
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Legare Romig Hole, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Combat Plane deployed over Samar in action against enemy
Japanese forces during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, on 25 October 1944, in the
Philippine Islands. Lieutenant Hole's outstanding courage, daring airmanship
and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.
Born: January 1, 1917 at Auburn, New York
Home Town: Auburn, New York
HOLLADAY, SAMUEL MEREDITH, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Samuel Meredith Holladay, 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 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. In the face of intense and
accurate antiaircraft fire from the whole enemy formation, under extremely
hazardous combat conditions, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Holladay participated
in a torpedo-bombing attack on a Japanese battleship. Fearlessly maneuvering
through withering hostile fire of all calibers, he pressed home his attack
and, by his expert airmanship, obtained a direct hit which caused certain
damage. 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. 338 (May 1945)
Born: November 27, 1920 at Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Home Town: Baton Rouge, Louisiana
HOLLEY, EDWARD BRAINARD
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Edward Brainard Holley, 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 TWENTY (VT-20), embarked
from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), 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 17, 1919 at Aiken, South
Carolina
Home Town: Aiken, South Carolina
HOLLINGSWORTH, WILLIAM R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to William R. Hollingsworth, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier-based Navy Bomber and Commanding Officer of Bombing Squadron SIX
(VB-6), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), in action against enemy
Japanese forces in Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands, 1 February 1942. After
leading his squadron over the enemy concentration, Commander Hollingsworth
dove his plane through withering anti-aircraft fire and scored a direct bomb
hit on an enemy anti-aircraft cruiser. Later in that day, he again led his
squadron in a vigorous and successful attack on an enemy air base at Tarawa
Island, Maloelap Atoll, and despite intense anti-aircraft opposition,
destroyed four enemy two-engined bombers and three Japanese fighters being
serviced on the air field. His fine spirit of determination and initiative in
offensive action and his gallant disregard for his own personal safety were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 312 (March 1943)
Born: September 6, 1903 at Ft. Meade, Florida
Home Town: Coronado, California
HOLLISTER, JAMES O.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to James O. Hollister, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Combat Plane in action on 7 April 1945, while deployed over
the East China 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.
HOLLOWAY, LESTER F.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Lester F. Holloway, Pharmacist's Mate Second Class, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving as a
Medical Corpsman with the Third Battalion, Twenty-Second Marines, First
Provisional Marine Brigade, FIFTH Amphibious Corps, in action against enemy
Japanese forces at Eniwetok in the Marshall Islands, during the period 18
through 23 February 1944. By his courage and efforts in behalf of others at
great risk to his own life, Pharmacist's Mate Second Class Holloway
undoubtedly saved many lives, and his steadfast devotion to duty throughout
was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: April 6, 1924 at Laurel, Mississippi
Home Town: Laurel, Mississippi
HOLMBERG, PAUL ALGODTE
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Paul Algodte Holmberg, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, 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 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. Lieutenant, Junior Grade,
Holmberg 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.
Born: April 18, 1915 at Stanberry, Missouri
Home Town: Brunswick, Missouri
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HOLMBERG, PAUL ALGODTE
(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 Paul Algodte Holmberg, Lieutenant,
U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while
serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron THREE
(VB-3), embarked from the U.S.S. SARATOGA (CV-3), in action against enemy
Japanese forces in the Solomon Islands on 24 August 1942. While piloting a
bombing airplane, Lieutenant Holmberg launched an attack against an enemy
Japanese aircraft carrier, contributing effectively to the probable
destruction of that vessel. Lieutenant Holmberg'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. 313 (April 1943)
Born: April 18, 1915 at Stanberry, Missouri
Home Town: Brunswick, Missouri
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HOLMES, KENNETH ALFRED
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Kenneth Alfred Holmes, 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 Air Group EIGHT (AG-8), attached to the
U.S.S. BUNKER HILL (CV-17), during an attack against the Japanese Fleet in the
Marianas Islands during the First Battle of the Philippine Sea, on 20 June
1944. Flying at extreme combat radius in a strike against major hostile Fleet
unit, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Holmes flew over the assigned area in bold
defiance of fierce enemy aerial opposition and a terrific barrage of
antiaircraft fire sent up from guns of all calibers including main batteries
and, pressing home his own vigorous attack at low altitude, scored a direct
bomb hit on hostile cruiser of the CHOKI class. By his airmanship and cool
courage in the face of tremendous odds, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Holmes
contributed materially to the infliction of extensive and costly damage on the
Japanese Fleet in this decisive engagement and upheld the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.
Born: August 13, 1918 at Los Angeles,
California
Home Town: Garvey, California
HOLMES, ROBERT H.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert H. Holmes, 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. BENNION (DD-662), in action against the enemy from 1
April 1945 through June 1945, deployed off the coast of Okinawa, in the Ryukyu
Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of
the Navy of the United States.
HOLT, PHILLIP CHRISTIAN
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Phillip Christian Holt, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession
as Commanding Officer of the Submarine Chaser U.S.S. SC-699, in action against
the enemy on 27 May 1944, while deployed off Bisk, New Guinea. His conduct
throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the
United States.
Born: August 21, 1909 at Missouri Home Town:
Silver Springs, Maryland
*HOLT, WILLIAM MACK
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to William Mack Holt, 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 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. Sighting a group of about 27 enemy bombers with escort,
Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Holt led his two-plane section through the enemy
fighters, downing several, and helped to turn back the bombers, continuing his
relentless attacks until his own aircraft was shot down. 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.
Born: September 9, 1917 at Great Falls,
Montana
Home Town: Great Falls, Montana
*HOLTON, RALPH L. (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Ralph L. Holton, Ensign, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Officer in
Charge of a Rescue Boat from the Destroyer U.S.S. HAMMANN (DD-412), following
the attack on the U.S.S. LEXINGTON in the Coral Sea on 8 May 1942. Ensign
Holton persistently returned to the burning U.S.S. LEXINGTON, and under a hail
of flaming debris from exploding bombs, ammunition, and gasoline, effected a
series of rescues as officer in charge of a boat detailed to rescue survivors.
He saved the lives of many who would have otherwise perished. 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. 315 (June 1943)
Born: September 19, 1918 at Chicago, Illinois
Home Town: Kalamazoo, Michigan
HOMER, WILLIAM N. P.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to William N. P. Homer, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Officer in Charge
of the Fire and Rescue Party from the Seaplane Tender U.S.S. BISCAYNE
(AVP-11), during action against enemy forces while participating in the
amphibious assault on Sicily, 10 to 12 July 1943. Although flames spread
rapidly on the bombed U.S.S. LST 158, igniting her deck cargo and causing
continuous gasoline and ammunition explosions, Ensign Homer courageously
boarded the blazing vessel during a severe hostile aircraft attack and
remained despite imminent personal danger from fire and suffocation until he
succeeded in removing a seriously wounded Army officer to safety. Through his
unswerving devotion to duty and gallant spirit of self-sacrifice, he
undoubtedly saved the life of a man who otherwise might have perished. His
conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of
the United States. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 324 (March 1944)
Born: June 11, 1920 at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
HOOD, RUDOLPH B.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Rudolph B. Hood, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession
while serving on board the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. HANCOCK (CV-19), in action
against the enemy on 28 July 1945, in the Pacific War Area. His conduct
throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the
United States.
HOOVER, GILBERT CORWIN
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Gilbert Corwin Hoover, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
Destroyer Squadron TWO, in action against the enemy on 7 and 8 May, 1942,
during the Battle of the Coral Sea. Captain Hoover's conduct throughout was in
keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: July 25, 1894 at Columbus, Ohio
Home Town: Bristol, Rhode Island
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HOOVER, GILBERT CORWIN
(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 Gilbert Corwin Hoover, 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. HELENA
(CL-50), during action against enemy Japanese naval forces off Savo Island
during the Battle of Cape Esperance on the night of 11 - 12 October 1942.
Maintaining the security of the rear in the battle column, Captain Hoover
fought his ship valiantly despite the difficulties of night combat and
succeeded in sinking a Japanese destroyer on the disengaged side. The
determined and effective gunfire of his ship was largely responsible for
holding to a minimum the damage to our destroyers in the rear. Captain
Hoover'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. 315 (June 1943)
Born: July 25, 1894 at Columbus, Ohio
Home Town: Bristol, Rhode Island
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HOOVER, GILBERT CORWIN
(Third Award)
Synopsis:
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 Gilbert Corwin Hoover,
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.
HELENA (CL-50), during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo
Island on the night of 12 - 13 November, 1942. His conduct throughout was in
keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: July 25, 1894 at Columbus, Ohio
Home Town: Bristol, Rhode Island
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HOOVER, JAMES T.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to James T. Hoover, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Combat Plane, in action on 24 July 1945, while deployed
over Kure, Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all
times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.
HOPGOOD, ROBERT BROWN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert Brown Hopgood, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Senior
Pilot of a Navy PBY5 Navy Patrol Plane in Patrol Squadron SEVENTY-THREE
(VP-73), in action against an enemy submarine in Skerja Fjord, near Reykjavik,
Iceland, on 20 August 1942. The enemy submarine was sighted on the surface
while the Navy Patrol Plane was on a regular air coverage flight over a
convoy. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Hopgood maneuvered his plane skillfully and
accurately dropped five depth charges which straddled the submarine and
exploded close aboard on each side just abaft the conning tower. In the face
of the enemy's anti-aircraft fire Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Hopgood proceeded
to maneuver his plane over the submarine and strafe it with machine gun fire;
he then led a destroyer from the convoy to the scene. As the destroyer was
approaching, the enemy abandoned the sinking submarine. A large number of
prisoners were taken by the destroyer. The initiative and resourcefulness of
Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Hopgood, in the face of enemy anti-aircraft fire and
undesirable weather conditions, resulted in the certain destruction of the
enemy submarine and capture of many survivors. 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. 345 (December 1945)
Born: June 30, 1919 at Glen Ellyn, Illinois
Home Town: Glen Ridge, New Jersey
HOPKINS, LEWIS ALEXANDER
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Lewis Alexander Hopkins, Ensign, 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.
ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy
Japanese forces on 4 - 6 June 1942. Defying extreme danger from concentrated
anti-aircraft barrage and powerful fighter opposition, Ensign Hopkins, with
bold determination and courageous zeal, participated in dive-bombing assaults
against Japanese naval units. Flying at a distance from his own forces which
rendered return unlikely because of probable fuel exhaustion, he pressed home
his attacks with extreme disregard for his own personal safety. His gallant
intrepidity and loyal devotion to duty contributed greatly to the success of
our forces and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.
Born: June 10, 1919 at Luthersville, Georgia
Home Town: Jacksonville, Florida
HORAN, JAMES T.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to James T. Horan, 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 of Bombing Squadron SIX (VB-6), embarked
from the U.S.S. HANCOCK (CV-19), in action against Japanese forces on 28 July
1945 while deployed over Kure Harbor, Japan. His outstanding courage and
determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HORENBURGER, CARL HERMAN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Carl Herman Horenburger, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane of Scouting Squadron FIVE (VS-5),
embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), during the "Air Battle of
Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 - 6 June 1942. Defying
extreme danger from concentrated anti- aircraft fire and fierce fighter
opposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Horenburger, with utter disregard for
his own personal safety, participated in persistent and vigorous attacks
against the Japanese invasion fleet. His gallant intrepidity and loyal
devotion to the accomplishment of a vastly important objective contributed in
large measure to the success achieved by our forces and were in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: February 27, 1915 at New York, New York
Home Town: Staten Island, New York
HORN, ROBERT AARON
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert Aaron Horn, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
extraordinary heroism in action as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane,
while participating in aerial combat against the Japanese Fleet in the
Marianas Islands, during the First Battle of the Philippine Sea, on 20 June
1944. By his airmanship and cool courage in the face of tremendous odds,
Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Horn contributed materially to the infliction of
extensive and costly damage on the Japanese Fleet in this decisive engagement
and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: January 6, 1919 at Port Carbon,
Pennsylvania
Home Town: Pottsville, Pennsylvania
HOROVITZ, JAMES JACOB
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to James Jacob Horovitz, Lieutenant, 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 SIXTY-SIX (LCI(G)-366),
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. Boldly defying the devastating barrage,
Lieutenant Horovitz moved his craft into the firing line, skillfully
maneuvering close inshore to insure the effectiveness of his attack. With the
enemy's overpowering gunfire exacting a heavy toll of the lightly armored
group he took over additional assigned sectors, and, keeping his guns trained
on the beach, continued to blast the heavy coastal defenses with barrage
rockets until his own guns were disabled and his ship severely damaged under
the incessant pounding. Courageous and steadfast, he calmly maintained control
of his crippled vessel and promptly reorganizing his crew, directed the
valiant LCI to safety without further damage or casualties. Lieutenant
Horovitz' dauntless perseverance, maintained in the face of overwhelming odds,
contributed materially to the success of his group in paving the way for the
invasion of Iwo Jima two days later and his stout-hearted devotion to duty
throughout upheld the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service.
Home Town: Brighton, Massachusetts
HORTON, KENNETH BRYAN
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Kenneth Bryan Horton, 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 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 25 October 1944. 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: March 31, 1922 at Thomasville, Georgia
Home Town: Thomasville, Georgia
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HORTON, KENNETH BRYAN
(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 Kenneth Bryan Horton, 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 FIFTEEN (VT-15), embarked from the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), during
offensive air operations against enemy shipping on 5 November 1944, in Manila
Bay on the Island of Luzon, of the Philippine Group. Ensign Horton's
outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: March 31, 1922 at Thomasville, Georgia
Home Town: Thomasville, Georgia
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HOSKINS, JOHN MADISON
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John Madison Hoskins, 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), when that vessel was hit
by a bomb from an enemy aircraft in Philippine waters during the Battle of
Leyte Gulf on 24 October 1944. Captain Hoskins, who was scheduled to take over
command of the PRINCETON, remained on board despite suggestions from the
Commanding Officer that he leave with all personnel not members of the salvage
party. Until severely wounded, Captain Hoskins assisted in fighting fires
despite continuous violent explosions. During one of the blasts, Captain
Hoskins' right foot was severed from his leg. The conduct of Captain Hoskins
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. 339 (June 1945)
Born: October 22, 1898 at Pineville, Kentucky
Home Town: Pineville, Kentucky
HOUCK, HERBERT NORMAN
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Herbert Norman Houck, Lieutenant Commander, 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 NINE (VF-9),
embarked from the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action on 11 November 1943, while
deployed over Rabaul. 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: April 2, 1915 at Corona, Minnesota
Home Town: Sawyer, Minnesota
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HOUCK, HERBERT NORMAN
(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 Herbert Norman Houck, Lieutenant
Commander, U.S. Navy (Reserve), 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 NINE (VF-9), in action on 16
February 1944, at Truk in the Caroline 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: April 2, 1915 at Corona, Minnesota
Home Town: Sawyer, Minnesota
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HOUCK, HERBERT NORMAN
(Third Award)
Synopsis:
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 Herbert Norman Houck,
Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Combat Plane and Commanding Officer of Air Group NINE (AG-9), embarked from
the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-10), in action on 7 April 1945, while deployed over
Kyushu, Japan. 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: April 2, 1915 at Corona, Minnesota
Home Town: Sawyer, Minnesota
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HOURIHAN, JOHN JOSEPH
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John Joseph Hourihan, 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. PAUL JONES (DD-230), and for extreme courage
and complete disregard for his own personal safety in the face of heavy
opposition during the Battle of Makassar Strait, on the night of 23 - 24
January 1942, in delivering a successful attack upon enemy Japanese forces off
Balikpapan, Borneo, Netherlands East Indies. By ignoring enemy challenges and
skillful maneuvering, Lieutenant Commander Hourihan used the element of
surprise in sinking with torpedoes and damaging by gunfire numerous vessels in
the enemy's concentration of cruisers, destroyers and various types of
transports and cargo ships, after which an orderly retirement was effected.
This action and the high morale of his command reflect most favorably on
Lieutenant Commander Hourihan's ability a leader and officer, and are in
keeping with the best traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 304 (July 1942)
Born: November 3, 1902 at Miami, Florida
Home Town: Miami, Florida
HOUSE, ANDREW JACKSON
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Andrew Jackson House, Coxswain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
devotion to duty as member of a demolition party attached to the U.S.S. BRANT
(ARS-32), during the assault on and occupation of French Morocco from 8 to 11
November 1942. Assigned the extremely dangerous task of cutting through an
enemy obstruction in order that the U.S.S. DALLAS could navigate up the Sebou
River, Coxswain House and his shipmates, on the night of 9 November proceeded
with grim determination toward their objective. Despite the treacherous surf,
he and his comrades skillfully and courageously accomplished their hazardous
mission of cutting the cables at the mouth of the river, just as guns from the
French fort opened fire. Countering the enemy's attack until out of range,
Coxswain House and the other members of his party, in spite of enormous
breakers which battered their boat and washed one of the machine guns
overboard, finally brought her back to safety. His throughout this action
reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: July 1, 1921 at Sasakwa, Oklahoma
Home Town: El Reno, Oklahoma
HOUSE, ARTHUR CASWELL, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Arthur Caswell House, Jr., Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism
and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer
of the U.S.S. APOGON (SS-308), during the SEVENTH War Patrol of that vessel in
enemy Japanese-controlled waters near the Kurile Islands from 28 May to 14
July 1945. Penetrating a heavy escort screen, Commandeer House launched well
planned torpedo attack to sink four hostile ships, for a total of 12,600 tons,
and, skillfully maneuvering his vessel, succeeded in evading all enemy
countermeasures. Engaging two 100-ton picket boats with gunfire, he sank one
of the enemy vessels and severely damaged the other despite heavy return fire
which scored several hits on his submarine. Through his experience and sound
judgment Commander House 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.
Born: December 24, 1910 at Weldon, North
Carolina
Home Town: Summerville, South Carolina
HOUSE, WILLIAM HIRAM
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to William Hiram House, Lieutenant, 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 FOURTEEN (VB-14), embarked from the U.S.S.
WASP (CV-18), in action on 26 October 1944, while deployed over the Sibuyan
Sea 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: July 9, 1916 at Paris, Texas
Home Town: Bisbee, Arizona
*HOWARD, CURTIS WILLIAM (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Curtis William Howard (0-081335), 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 of Torpedo Squadron
THREE (VT-3), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), during the "Air
Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 June 1942.
Participating in a Torpedo Plane assault against Japanese naval units,
Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Howard, in the face of tremendous anti-aircraft fire
and overwhelming fighter opposition, pressed home his attack to a point where
it became relatively certain that, in order to accomplish his mission, he
would probably sacrifice his life. Undeterred by the grave possibilities of
such a hazardous offensive, he carried on, with extreme disregard for his own
personal safety, until his squadron scored direct hits on two enemy aircraft
carriers. His self sacrificing gallantry and fortitude 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. 309 (December 1942)
Born: August 31, 1917 at Guam Home Town: Olympia, Washington
HOWARD, ROBERT LEONARD
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert Leonard Howard, 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 8 August 1942, while deployed over
the Solomon 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: May 14, 1916 at Malden, Massachusetts
Home Town: Medford, Massachusetts
HOWE, HAMILTON WILCOX
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Hamilton Wilcox Howe, 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. ROPER (DD-147, when his ship made a successful
attack upon the German submarine U-85 in the waters of the Atlantic on the
night of 13 - 14 April 1942. Lieutenant Commander Howe with an offensive
singleness of purpose tracked, attacked and completely destroyed the German
U-85 off the Coast of Virginia, without injury to his vessel or its personnel.
Lieutenant Commander Howe's inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to
duty of his command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of
this successful mission and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval
Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 304 (July 1942)
Born: January 16, 1904 at Albert Lea, Minnesota
Home Town: Norfolk, Virginia
*HOWE, KENNETH EUGENE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Kenneth Eugene Howe, Chief Specialist, 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. LEONARD WOOD (APA-12), during the assault on
and occupation of French Morocco from 8 to 11 November 1942. Preceding the
assault on Fedala on 8 November, Chief Specialist Howe skillfully maneuvered
his craft in complete darkness from the transport area off the coast toward
the landing beach designated for the assault battalion of the Leonard Wood.
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
Specialist Howe gallantly maintained his station until his mission was
accomplished, thereby contributing to the successful landing of our troops.
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. 318 (September 1943)
Born: November 19, 1912 at Madison, Missouri
Home Town: Holliday, Missouri
HOWELL, JAMES NICHOLAS, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to James Nicholas Howell, Jr., 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 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 Howell
pressed home vigorous attacks upon an enemy battleship 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.
Born: March 23, 1917 at Dublin, Texas
Home Town: Dublin, Texas
HOWELL, JOHN DAVID
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John David Howell, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Plotting Room Officer
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. After most efficiently performing his
duties in Plot during action, Lieutenant Howell left Plot of his own volition,
when the ship broke off the action, and entered the Five-inch magazines. Here
he organized working parties to shift five-inch ammunition from flooding
magazines to dry ones, thereby saving many rounds of ammunition. He had all
magazine doors securely dogged which prevented further flooding. As Plotting
Room Officer Lieutenant Howell know the dangerous condition the ship was in,
yet he did not hesitate to enter the danger area and do all in his power to
save the ship, at the risk of his own life. His conduct throughout was in
keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: December 2, 1918 at Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania
Home Town: West Orange, New Jersey
HOYLE, RONALD JACKSON
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Ronald Jackson Hoyle, 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 SIX (VF-6),
embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during the "Air Battle of
Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 - 6 June 1942. Defying
extreme danger from concentrated anti-aircraft barrage and powerful fighter
opposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Hoyle, with bold determination and
courageous zeal, participated in dive-bombing assaults against Japanese naval
units. Flying at a distance from his own forces which rendered return unlikely
because of probable fuel exhaustion, he pressed home his attacks with extreme
disregard for his own personal safety. His gallant intrepidity and loyal
devotion to duty contributed greatly to the success of our forces and were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: November 7, 1914 at Shawnee, Oklahoma
Home Town: Poteau, Oklahoma
HOYT, RAYMOND EARL, JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Raymond Earl Hoyt, 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 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. By his superb flying ability, indomitable fighting spirit and
cool courage, maintained at great personal risk, Lieutenant, Junior Grade,
Hoyt 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.
Born: July 8, 1922 at Palms, California
Home Town: San Francisco, California
HUDDLESTON, JAMES C.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to James C. Huddleston, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy (Reserve), 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 EIGHTY-EIGHT (VT-88), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-10), in
action on 18 July 1945, in the Pacific War Area. His outstanding courage and
determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HUDGINS, ROBERT S.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert S. Hudgins, 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
SEVENTY-ONE (LCI(G)-471), 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.
Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Hudgins' exceptional courage and valiant devotion to
duty in the face of grave danger were in keeping with the highest traditions
of the United States Naval Service.
HUDSON, HAROLD GAYLE
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Harold Gayle Hudson, 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 action on 28 July 1945, while
deployed over Kure, Japan. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the
highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
HUDSON, JOHN J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John J. Hudson, 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 SEVEN (VB-7), embarked
from the U.S.S. HANCOCK (CV-19), in action against enemy Japanese forces in
the Sulu Sea in the Philippine Islands, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25
October 1944. as Pilot of a carrier-based Bombing Plane, Lieutenant, Junior
Grade, Hudson scored a destructive hit on a heavy cruiser of the Japanese
Fleet in the Sulu Sea, 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. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Hudson'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. 342 (September 1945)
Born: May 22, 1924 at Springfield, Ohio
Home Town: Springfield, Ohio
HUFFMAN, GERALD MARTIN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Gerald Martin Huffman, 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 EIGHTY-TWO (VF-82),
attached to the U.S.S. BENNINGTON (CV-20), in action against enemy Japanese
forces in the Japanese Inland Sea, on 19 March 1945. Participating in a strike
against hostile war ships and naval installations, Lieutenant, Junior Grade,
Huffman shot down in flames an enemy fighter plane and, attacking an enemy
aircraft carrier in the face of heavy antiaircraft fire, scored two direct
rocket hits which caused serious damage to the flight deck of the Japanese
warship. His outstanding airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with
the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HUGGINS, JESSE CAPER
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Jesse Caper Huggins, 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 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 25 October 1944. In the face of heavy and accurate
antiaircraft fire, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Huggins participated in a
vigorous and determined glide-bombing attack on enemy ships, scoring a torpedo
hit from close range on an enemy carrier, contributing materially to its
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,
Huggins contributed materially to the sinking of this valuable enemy fighting
unit and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: August 3, 1922 at Columbia, South
Carolina
Home Town: Columbia, South Carolina
*HUGHES, DAVID FERRAR (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to David Ferrar Hughes (0-291232), Ensign, 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, Ensign Hughes 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 Ensign Hughes and the United
States Naval Service.
Born: May 30, 1920 at Kingston, Ontario,
Canada
Home Town: St. Louis, Missouri
HUGHES, JOHN N.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John N. Hughes, 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. PARROTT (DD-218), in action against enemy Japanese
naval forces at Badoeng Straits off the Island of Bali, Netherlands East
Indies, on the night of 19 - 20 February 1942. Lieutenant Commander Hughes
delivered a well-directed and gallant attack by gun and torpedo fire against a
vastly superior force of enemy vessels. Although the ship which he commanded
was illuminated by the enemy and under heavy fire, its fire scored several
hits which damaged the enemy ships and silenced their fire. Lieutenant
Commander Hughes' inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his
command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of this vital
mission and reflects great credit upon the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 312 (March 1943)
Born: November 28, 1909 at Columbia, Missouri
Home Town: Ames, Iowa
HULL, HARRY
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Harry Hull, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity
and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer
of the U.S.S. THRESHER (SS-200), during a War Patrol of that submarine in the
summer of 1943, in enemy controlled waters of the Pacific War Area. Through
his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Hull 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. 325 (April 1944)
Born: January 18, 1912 at Athens, Georgia
Home Town: Washington, D.C.
HULL, JESSE L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Jesse L. Hull, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and
intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as
Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. FINBACK (SS-230), during the SECOND War
Patrol of that submarine during the period 23 September 1942 to 20 November
1942, in enemy controlled waters of the East China Sea. Lieutenant Commander
Hull daringly pressed home attacks on Japanese shipping and skillfully
maneuvered his vessel in hostile waters, sinking 14,000 tons of enemy
shipping, destroying one sampan of 100 tons by gunfire, and severely damaging
nearly 14,000 tons of enemy shipping. Lieutenant Commander Hull handled his
ship with such expert seamanship and calm courage that he was an inspiration
in maintaining the high morale of his crew. Through his experience and sound
judgment Lieutenant Commander Hull 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. 315 (June 1943)
Born: May 3, 1903 at Thomasville, Missouri
Home Town: West Plains, Missouri
HULLAND, CHARLES W. S.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Charles W. S. Hulland, Ensign, 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 20 August 1944, while deployed over
Southern France. 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: October 28, 1918 at St. Louis, Missouri
Home Town: Centralia, Illinois
HUNGERFORD, JOSEPH FLOYD
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Joseph Floyd Hungerford, 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 of Bombing Squadron EIGHTY-FIVE (VB-85),
embarked from the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against Japanese forces on 18
July 1945, while deployed over Yokosuka, Japan. His outstanding courage and
determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HUNNICUTT, JAMES L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to James L. Hunnicutt, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for
gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his
profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. CARP (SS-338), on the FIRST War
Patrol of that submarine during the period 8 June 1945 to 2 August 1945, in
enemy controlled waters off the coast of Honshu, Japan. Through his experience
and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Hunnicutt 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.
HUNT, CHARLES B.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Charles B. Hunt, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
the Cargo Ship U.S.S. ALHENA (AK-26), in action against the enemy on 7, 8, and
9 August 1942, during the landing of U.S. Marines in the Solomon Islands. His
conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of
the United States.
Born: December 4, 1896 at Evanston, Illinois
Home Town: Pasadena, California
HUNT, RICHARD L., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Richard L. Hunt, 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 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, Hunt 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: December 23, 1921 at Keytesville,
Missouri
Home Town: Kansas City, Missouri
HUNTER, ROBERT NISBET
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert Nisbet Hunter, 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. KADASHAN BAY (CVE-76), in a surface engagement with
a large task force of the Japanese Fleet near the Island of Samar in
Philippine waters during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. By his
own courage and gallant determination, he gave encouragement to his officers
and men during this crucial ordeal. His heroic actions have brought great
distinction upon himself and his conduct throughout was in keeping with the
highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: September 16, 1899 at Mason, Georgia
Home Town: Norfolk, Virginia
HUNTLEY, WILLIAM H.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to William H. Huntley, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism
in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Combat Plane embarked from the U.S.S. BENNINGTON (CV-20), in action on 28 July
1945, while deployed over Kure Harbor, Japan. His outstanding courage and
determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HURD, KENNETH CHARLES
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Kenneth Charles Hurd, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and
intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as
Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SEAL (SS-183), in action on 24 February 1942,
during the SECOND War Patrol of that submarine in enemy controlled waters of
the Java Sea. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: November 18, 1902 at Metamora, Michigan
Home Town: Coronado, California
HURLEY, ROBERT W.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Robert W. Hurley, 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 EIGHTY-FOUR (VT-84), embarked from the
U.S.S. BUNKER HILL (CV-17), during an attack against the Japanese Battleship
Yamato off Kyushu, Japan, on 7 April 1945. Displaying great skill and courage,
Ensign Hurley pressed home his torpedo attack and despite extremely intense
antiaircraft fire from all caliber weapons on the battleship and the
surrounding screen. His torpedo was one of thirteen dropped in a concerted
attack by the squadron, which scored at least nine hits on the battleship
almost simultaneously. Without flinching he carried his torpedo in to close
range through adverse weather conditions and intense enemy fire which included
the main batteries, contributing materially to the complete destruction of the
capital ship a short time later. His courage, skill, determination and
unswerving devotion to duty were at all times in keeping with the highest
traditions of the United States Naval Service.
*HURST, EDWIN WILLIAM
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Edwin William Hurst, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot
of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane and Executive 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 Hurst pressed home two attacks on enemy aircraft
carriers, one on 7 May and one on 8 May. With complete disregard for his own
safety and expert conception of the task at hand, he scored hits within short
range of his objectives, contributing to the destruction of one carrier and to
damage and possible destruction of the other. His persistent determination and
conscientious devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of
the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 307 (Oct 1942)
Born: October 16, 1910 at Falls City, Nebraska
Home Town: Coronado, California
HURT, SAMUEL H.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Samuel H. Hurt, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. LOUISVILLE (CA-28), in action against enemy Japanese
forces at Surigao Strait during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine
Islands on the night of 24 - 25 October 1944. This successful attack
contributed in large measure to eliminating an imminent and dangerous threat
to our transports and other ships in Leyte Gulf. Captain Hurt's high
professional skill, forceful leadership, and gallant devotion to duty were in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: February 7, 1896 at Blackstone, Virginia
Home Town: Blackstone, Virginia
HUTCHINS, CHARLES HARRIS
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Charles Harris Hutchins, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding
Officer of 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. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest
traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: January 28, 1913 at Pawtucket, Rhode
Island
Home Town: Terre Haute, Indiana
HUTCHINSON, EDWARD SHILLINGTON
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Edward Shillington Hutchinson, 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. GRAMPUS (SS-207), during the FIRST War
Patrol of that vessel in enemy controlled waters during the period 8 February
1942 to 4 April 1942. Despite strong enemy countermeasures and unfavorable sea
conditions, Lieutenant Commander Hutchinson took advantage of every
opportunity to strike the enemy and in a series of skillfully conducted
attacks succeeded in sinking 20,000 tons of enemy Japanese shipping without
casualty to personnel of his own command. Lieutenant Commander Hutchinson's
conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men, and are in
keeping with the highest traditions of the Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin
No. 313 (April 1943)
Born: February 14, 1904 at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HUTCHINSON, EDWARD SHILLINGTON
(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 Edward Shillington Hutchinson,
Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
the U.S.S. RASHER (SS-269), on the FIRST War Patrol of that submarine during
the period 24 September 1943 to 24 November 1943, in enemy controlled waters
of in the Makassar Strait and Celebes Sea. Lieutenant Commander Hutchinson
relentlessly sought out the enemy during a prolonged period of hazardous
undersea operations. He took advantage of every favorable attack opportunity
and, fighting his ship with determined and aggressiveness, succeeded in
sinking and damaging an important amount of vital hostile shipping. Through
his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Hutchinson 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. 340 (July 1945)
Born: February 14, 1904 at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)
HUTTENBERG, ALLEN J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Allen J. Huttenberg, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for exceptional courage,
presence of mind, and devotion to duty and disregard for his personal safety
while serving on board the Battleship U.S.S. NEVADA (BB-36), during the
Japanese attack on the United States Pacific Fleet in Pearl Harbor, Territory
of Hawaii, on 7 December 1941. Despite heavy enemy bombing, strafing and
torpedo attacks, Ensign Huttenberg, Battery Officer on the 5"
anti-aircraft battery of the U.S.S. NEVADA, although seriously wounded and
handicapped by heavy casualties to the personnel of the battery, maintained a
highly effective fire from his battery. The conduct of Ensign Huttenberg
throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping
with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: July 5, 1921 at Chatsworth, Illinois
Home Town: Tulare, California
HUTTO, ERNEST E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Ernest E. Hutto, Ensign, 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-THREE (VB-83), 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, Japan, on 18 July 1945. Ensign Hutto skillfully and
courageously piloted his aircraft in a dive bombing attack on an enemy
battleship. During this attack, in the face of intense anti-aircraft fire, he
scored a direct hit at the assigned aiming point, causing heavy damage to the
battleship. His skill and courage were at all times in keeping with the
highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: at Vallejo, California
Home Town: Decatur, Alabama
HUTTO, JOHN FRANCIS
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John Francis Hutto, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary
heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a
carrier-based Navy Combat Plane deployed over Samar in action against enemy
Japanese forces during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, on 25 October 1944, in the
Philippine Islands. Lieutenant Hutto's outstanding courage, daring airmanship
and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United
States Naval Service.
Born: March 17, 1917 at Oakman, Alabama
Home Town: Oakman, Alabama
HYDE, JOHN MILTON
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to John Milton Hyde, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
the U.S.S. BERGALL (SS-320), on the SECOND War Patrol of that submarine during
the period 2 December to 23 December 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the
South China Sea. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Hyde
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.
Born: September 6, 1910 at Flushing, New York
Home Town: Bayside, New York
HYDEMAN, EARL T.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Earl T. Hydeman, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and
distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of
the U.S.S. SEA DOG (SS-401), on the FOURTH War Patrol of that submarine during
the period 26 May 1945 to 5 July 1945, in enemy controlled waters in the Sea
of Japan. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Hydeman 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.
*HYMAN, WILLFORD MILTON (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross
(Posthumously) to Willford Milton Hyman, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for
extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession
as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. SIMS (DD-409), during operations
in the Coral Sea on 7 May 1942. Lieutenant Hyman skillfully warded off the
first raid of a hostile aircraft attack on his vessel and the ship which it
was escorting, and, in the second raid, when the Sims lay dead and crippled in
the water, he kept her guns blazing away until the last Japanese plane had
disappeared. Then he coolly directed salvage and repair operations until the
bridge of the sinking vessel was completely awash and he went down into the
sea. The conduct of Lieutenant Hyman throughout this action reflects great
credit upon himself, and was 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. 313 (April 1943)
Born: August 16, 1901 at Pueblo, Colorado
Home Town: San Pedro, California
HYND, HARRY FRANKLIN
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross
to Harry Franklin Hynd, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in
operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy
Plane, in action on July, 24, 1945, while deployed over Kure, Japan. His
outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in
keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
*GILMORE, HOWARD WALTER
*GIMBER, C. F.
GORDER, MERLE HOWARD
GREGG, MAX EUGENE
*GROVES, STEPHEN W. (MIA)
