Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant (junior grade)

Unit:

USS Lexington (CV-2), US Navy

Awarded on:

August 1945

Citation:
"for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as an Officer aboard the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2), during rescue operations after the torpedoing of his ship by Japanese forces in the Coral Sea on 8 May 1942. Lieutenant Gorman worked desperately despite freon gas which filled the access trunk, continuing attacks and rising water, to free four enlisted men trapped below decks by the explosion. Fully realizing the constant threat of collapsing, he remained at this station, pumping from the access trunk until he finally succeeded in rescuing the four trapped crew members. By his unfaltering devotion to duty and great personal valor, he undoubtedly saved the lives of his men. The conduct of Lieutenant Gorman throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."