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Swenson, Lyman Knute

Date of birth:
October 23rd, 1892 (Pleasant Grove/Utah, United States)
Date of death:
November 13th, 1942 (Savo, Guadalcanal)
Mentioned on:
American Cemetery and Memorial Manila
Service number:
0-9624
Nationality:
American (1776 - present, Republic)

Biography

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Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Captain
Unit:
U.S.S. Juneau (CL-52), U.S. Navy
Awarded on:
April 1943
"The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Captain Lyman Knute Swenson (NSN: 0-9624), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Light Cruiser U.S.S. JUNEAU (CL-52), during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island on the night of 12 - 13 November, 1942. On this occasion the force to which Captain Swenson was attached engaged at close quarters and defeated a superior enemy force, inflicting heavy damage upon them and preventing the accomplishment of their intended mission. This daring and intrepid attack, brilliantly executed, led to a great victory for his country's forces. By his indomitable fighting spirit, expert seamanship, and gallant devotion to duty, Captain Swenson contributed largely to the success of the battle and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 313 (Posthumously awarded)
Navy Cross
Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Captain
Unit:
U.S.S. Juneau (CL-52), U.S. Navy
Awarded on:
April 1943
Purple Heart

Posthumously awarded
Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)

With "A" device
American Defence Service Medal

Sources