Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Aviation Ordnanceman Third Class

Unit:

U.S.S. Salt Lake City (CA-25), U.S. Navy

Awarded on:

February 26th, 1943

"For extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving on board the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. SALT LAKE CITY (CA-25), during action against enemy Japanese naval forces off Savo Island during the Battle of Cape Esperance on the night of 11 - 12 October 1942. On that date Task Group 64.2, of which the U.S.S. SALT LAKE CITY was a unit, engaged a Japanese force of cruisers and destroyers. Aviation Ordnanceman Third Class Acree was a relief fuse pot loader on five-inch gun #1. During the action, he was struck by shell fragments in the arm and abdomen, causing him to fall to the deck. Despite his injuries, he continued to hold the shell and to protect the base and primer with his hand. Both the main arm and 5-inch batteries of the ship were firing at the same time, and a shell rolling loose on the deck would have constituted a serious hazard to personnel and might well have hampered the effectiveness of the forward five-inch battery. During the next lull, he was given first aid, but died shortly thereafter. 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."

Awarded pothumously. P15/(02): Serial 0319

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Aviation Ordnanceman Third Class

Unit:

U.S.S. Salt Lake City (CA-25), U.S. Navy

Awarded pothumously.