The Chief of Naval Personnel takes pleasure in commending you for your conspicuous gallantry on the occasion of the sinking of USS Plymouth by enemy action on 5 August 1943.

A report of the disaster reveals that the ship was attacked by a hostile submarine and received a torpedo hit amidships. Flames immediately broke out from the engine room level to the bridge, trapping and killing many men in the forward part of the vessel. The violent explosion caused serious damage and a short time later USS Plymouth disappeared beneath the surface of the sea. Thrown into the water, you unselfishly swam about aiding those of your shipmates who were wounded or in distress, thereby saving several lives at the risk of your own.

Your outstanding courage and devotion to the welfare of your comrades were in keeping with the best traditions of the United States Naval Service.