Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Unit:

U.S.S. Sculpin (SS-191), U.S Navy

"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty as Commander of a Submarine Coordinated Attack Group with Flag in the U.S.S. Sculpin, during the 9th War Patrol of that vessel in enemy-controlled waters off Truk Island, 19 November 1943. Undertaking this patrol prior to the launching of our first large-scale offensive in the Pacific, Capt. Cromwell, (SN 0-58950) alone of the entire Task Group, possessed secret intelligence information of our submarine strategy and tactics, scheduled Fleet movements and specific attack plans. Constantly vigilant and precise in carrying out his secret orders, he moved his underseas flotilla inexorably forward despite savage opposition and established a line of submarines to southeastward of the main Japanese stronghold at Truk. Cool and undaunted as the submarine, rocked and battered by Japanese depth charges, sustained terrific battle damage and sank to an excessive depth, he authorized the Sculpin to surface and engage the enemy in a gunfight, thereby providing an opportunity for the crew to abandon ship. Determined to sacrifice himself rather than risk capture and subsequent danger of revealing plans under Japanese torture or use of drugs, he stoically remained aboard the mortally wounded vessel as she plunged to her death. Preserving the security of his mission, at the cost of his own life, he had served his country as he had served the Navy, with deep integrity and an uncompromising devotion to duty. His great moral courage in the face of certain death adds new luster to the traditions of the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country."

Date of citation unknown

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Unit:

Submarine Division 43, U.S. Navy

Awarded on:

December 1944

"For exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as commander of Submarine Division 43 from October 1943 to March 1944. Captain Cromwell handled the varied and complex details of his assignment with skill and initiative. Under his leadership his vessels completed eight war patrols and sank many tons of enemy shipping."

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 333

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Unit:

U.S.S. Sculpin (SS-191), U.S. Navy

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

1 bronze service star

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

1 bronze service star

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)