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Awarded for actions during World War II

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Navy Cross to Commander Laurence Allen Abercrombie (NSN: 0-56922), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. DRAYTON (DD-366), as Screen Commander of a Task Force unit during action against Japanese aerial forces in the Solomon Islands area on 17 February 1943. By the accurate and timely warning given by the ships under his command, Commander Abercrombie enabled the task unit commander to dispose his transports and destroyers for the most effective action against hostile Torpedo Planes. Despite the difficulties and hazards of a night engagement during which five Japanese planes were destroyed, Commander Abercrombie brought his forces through without casualty or damage. Commander Abercrombie'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
General Orders: Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 316 (July 1943)
Action Date: 17-Feb-43
Service: Navy
Rank: Commander
Company: Commanding Officer
Division: U.S.S. Drayton (DD-366)

Navy Cross

Awarded for actions during World War II

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Commander Laurence Allen Abercrombie (NSN: 0-56922), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as the Commanding Officer of Destroyer Division NINE, which engaged Japanese naval forces in a daring daylight raid on the enemy patrol line south of the Gilbert Islands on 22 October 1942. Commander Abercrombie skillfully maneuvered his division, exercising such brilliant tactical judgment that heavy damage was inflicted upon the enemy. Two enemy vessels were sunk by the gunfire of his force, and repeated air attacks were repelled without damage to the ships or crews under his command. Through his leadership this bold mission was brought to a highly successful conclusion. His courageous conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Naval Service.
General Orders: Commander Southern Pacific Forces: Serial 909 (March 20, 1943
Action Date: 22-Oct-42
Service: Navy
Rank: Commander
Company: Commanding Officer
Division: Destroyer Division 9

Navy Cross

Awarded for actions during World War II
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander Laurence Allen Abercrombie (NSN: 0-56922), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. DRAYTON (DD-366), during operations in the Far East on 24 December 1941 Commander Abercrombie skillfully directed his vessel in an engagement which resulted in the destruction of an enemy vessel. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Action Date: 24-Dec-41
Service: Navy
Rank: Commander
Company: Commanding Officer
Division: U.S.S. Drayton (DD-366)