Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant Commander

Unit:

Commanding Officer, USS Samuel B. Roberts (DE-413), Task Unit 77.4.3, Task Group 77.4, Task Force 77, U.S. Navy

Awarded on:

September 1945

Citation:
“For distinguishing himself by extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of a warship, the USS Samuel B. Roberts, (DE-413), in a surface action with a large task force of the Japanese Fleet, off Samar, in Philippine waters, October 25, 1944. Against an enemy force vastly superior in numbers, armament and armor, with cool deliberation he closed to deliver a torpedo attack on heavy ships of the rapidly advancing enemy who had taken him under fire from their large calibre guns. By his heroic action, he thus diverted enemy fire to himself from the almost defenseless vessels which he was protecting. Although his ship was lost in this engagement, his heroic actions were instrumental in turning back, sorely crippled, a vastly superior enemy force. His extraordinary courage and magnificent fighting spirit in the face of terrific odds will live forever in the memory of the officers and men who served with him that day. His conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.”

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 342 (September 1945).
Received the Navy Cross from Rear Admiral David M. LeBreton, at Norfolk, Virginia, 16 July 1945 for heroism while in command of USS Samuel B. Roberts (DE-413) during the Battle off Samar, 25 October 1944.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)