Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Commander

Unit:

Cargo Ship U.S.S. Alchiba (AK-23) U.S. Navy

Awarded on:

June 1943

Citation:
"For extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Cargo Ship U.S.S. ALCHIBA (AK-23), during operations in the Solomon Islands during the period 7 August 1942 through 28 November 1942. Commander Freeman successfully maneuvered his cargo ship through enemy-infested waters and, in spite of attacks by high altitude bombers and aerial torpedoes, landed supplies and equipment for our forces during the initial operations of occupying the Solomon Islands. On the third subsequent trip to this area his ship was attacked and hit by an enemy submarine. Commander Freeman beached his ship, despite numerous gasoline and ammunition explosions, in order that the cargo and vessel might be saved. Commander Freeman'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).