Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Ensign

Unit:

USS Searaven (SS-196), U.S. Navy

Awarded on:

April 1945

Citation:
"For extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving on board the submarine U.S.S. SEARAVEN (SS-196), during the rescue of an Australian aviator stranded on the Island of Timor when the Japanese invaded the southwest Pacific Islands in the Spring of 1942. While on patrol on 18 - 19 April 1942, the SEARAVEN was directed to evacuate a number of airmen of the Royal Australian Air Force from Timor, Netherlands East Indies. Despite the fact that enemy forces were present in the vicinity and also were searching for the grounded aviators, Ensign Cook unhesitatingly swam ashore through the surf and after considerable difficulty and with great danger to himself, made contact with the Australians. Thereafter he made several trips through the surf, superintended the transfer of the sick and wounded men to the U.S.S. SEARAVEN and, in complete disregard for his own safety, rescued two from drowning. Ensign Cook displayed extraordinary heroism under exceptionally trying conditions. His actions were in complete disregard of his personal safety and are an inspiring example of devotion to duty. His high courage and fine leadership on this occasion are in accord with the best traditions of the Navy of the United States."

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 337 (April 1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant

Unit:

Assistant Approach Officer, USS Spadefish (SS-411), U.S. Navy

Awarded on:

October 1946

Citation:
"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action in the performance of his duties as Assistant Approach Officer in the U.S.S. SPADEFISH (SS-411), during the THIRD War Patrol of that Submarine in enemy-controlled waters from 6 January 1945 to 13 February 1945. Lieutenant Cook's actions were of invaluable assistance to his Commanding Officer in conducting attacks which resulted in the sinking of enemy ships and small craft totaling approximately 26,000 tons. His coolness and high devotion to duty contributed directly to the success of his vessel in evading enemy countermeasures. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to the officers and men in his ship, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 355 (October 1946)