The President of the United States
in the name of The Congress
takes pleasure in presenting the
Medal of Honor
to
McCANDLESS, BRUCE
Rank and Organization: Commander, U.S. Navy, U.S.S.
San Francisco. Place and Date Battle off Savo Island, 1213 November 1942. Entered
Service at: Colorado. Born: 12 August 1911, Washington, D.C. Other Navy Award:
Silver Star.
Citation:
For conspicuous gallantry and exceptionally distinguished service above and beyond the
call of duty as communication officer of the U.S.S. San Francisco in combat with enemy
Japanese forces in the battle off Savo Island, 1213 November 1942. In the midst of a
violent night engagement, the fire of a determined and desperate enemy seriously wounded
Lt. Comdr. McCandless and rendered him unconscious, killed or wounded the admiral in
command, his staff, the captain of the ship, the navigator, and all other personnel on the
navigating and signal bridges. Faced with the lack of superior command upon his recovery,
and displaying superb initiative, he promptly assumed command of the ship and ordered her
course and gunfire against an overwhelmingly powerful force. With his superiors in other
vessels unaware of the loss of their admiral, and challenged by his great responsibility,
Lt. Comdr. McCandless boldly continued to engage the enemy and to lead our column of
following vessels to a great victory. Largely through his brilliant seamanship and great
courage, the San Francisco was brought back to port, saved to fight again in the service
of her country.
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