Criteria The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or aft... The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or after December 7, 1941. MoreHide
Criteria The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or aft... The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or after December 7, 1941. MoreHide
Criteria The China Service Medal was awarded to Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard personnel who: Served ashore in China or who were attached to any of the vessels that operated in support of the operations in... The China Service Medal was awarded to Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard personnel who: Served ashore in China or who were attached to any of the vessels that operated in support of the operations in China between July 7, 1937, and September 7, 1939; or who Served ashore in China or were attached to any of the vessels that operated in support of operations in China between September 2, 1945 and April 1, 1957. Military services performed in the Asiatic-Pacific area between September 2, 1945 and March 2, 1946 could be credited for eligibility for the China Service Medal unless the individual was eligible for the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal based on service performed prior to September 2, 1945. MoreHide
Criteria The American Campaign Medal was awarded for For thirty days service outside the Continental United States but within the American Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946; or,... The American Campaign Medal was awarded for For thirty days service outside the Continental United States but within the American Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946; or, an aggregate service of one year within the Continental United States during the same period under the following circumstances: On permanent assignment outside the continental limits of the United States; or, On permanent assignment as a member of a crew of a vessel sailing ocean waters for a period of 30 consecutive days or 60 non-consecutive days; or, For service outside the continental limits of the United States in a passenger status or on temporary duty for 30 consecutive days or 60 non consecutive days; or, For service in active combat against the enemy and awarded a combat decoration or furnished a certificate by the commanding general of a corps, higher unit, or independent force that the individual actually participated in combat; or, For service within the continental limits of the United States for an aggregate period of one year. MoreHide
Criteria The American Campaign Medal was awarded for For thirty days service outside the Continental United States but within the American Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946; or,... The American Campaign Medal was awarded for For thirty days service outside the Continental United States but within the American Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946; or, an aggregate service of one year within the Continental United States during the same period under the following circumstances: On permanent assignment outside the continental limits of the United States; or, On permanent assignment as a member of a crew of a vessel sailing ocean waters for a period of 30 consecutive days or 60 non-consecutive days; or, For service outside the continental limits of the United States in a passenger status or on temporary duty for 30 consecutive days or 60 non consecutive days; or, For service in active combat against the enemy and awarded a combat decoration or furnished a certificate by the commanding general of a corps, higher unit, or independent force that the individual actually participated in combat; or, For service within the continental limits of the United States for an aggregate period of one year. MoreHide
Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal may be awarded to service members who, while serving in any capacity with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievem... The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal may be awarded to service members who, while serving in any capacity with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement or meritorious service (but not of sufficient nature to warrant a higher decoration). MoreHide
Comments "For meritorious service as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. Mispillion during combat operations against enemy North Korean and Chinese Communist forces in the Korean Theater from 14 Februry 1952 to 9... "For meritorious service as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. Mispillion during combat operations against enemy North Korean and Chinese Communist forces in the Korean Theater from 14 Februry 1952 to 9 June 1953..." MoreHide
Criteria To be eligible for this medal, the Service member must have: Served between the outbreak of hostilities (June 25, 1950) and the date the armistice was signed (July 27, 1953); Been on permanent assignm... To be eligible for this medal, the Service member must have: Served between the outbreak of hostilities (June 25, 1950) and the date the armistice was signed (July 27, 1953); Been on permanent assignment or on temporary duty for thirty consecutive days or sixty non-consecutive days, and Performed duty within the territorial limits of Korea, in the waters immediately adjacent thereto or in aerial flight over Korea participating in actual combat operation or in support of combat operations. MoreHide
Criteria The United Nations Korean Medal was generally awarded for any period of service while assigned as a member of the Armed Forces dispatched to Korea or adjacent areas for service on behalf of the United... The United Nations Korean Medal was generally awarded for any period of service while assigned as a member of the Armed Forces dispatched to Korea or adjacent areas for service on behalf of the United Nations. Service in qualifying organizations had to be certified by the United Nations Commander-in-Chief as having directly supported military operations in Korea. In the case of the United States, such certification was issued in General Orders 31 (June 20, 1955); General Orders 33 (July 11, 1955); and General Orders 36 (July 13, 1955). MoreHide
Criteria The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service... The National Defense Service Medal is awarded for honorable active service as a member of the Armed Forces during the Korean War, Vietnam War, the war against Iraq in the Persian Gulf, and for service during the current War on Terrorism. In addition, all members of the National Guard and Reserve who were part of the Selected Reserve in good standing between August 2, 1990, to November 30, 1995, are eligible for the National Defense Service Medal. In the case of Navy personnel, Midshipment attending the Naval Academy during the qualifying periods are eligible for this award, and Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC) Midshipmen ae only eligible if they participated in a summer cruise that was in an area which qualified for a campaign medal. MoreHide
Other Memories
Most impressive of all was Rasher's legendary Fifth War Patrol wen, in a single night's surface action off the Philippines, Cdr. Henry G Munson sank the 20,00-ton escort aircraft carrier Taiyo and three marus. During this same patrol the Rasher also sank the 4,739-ton Shiroganesan Maru. With 52,667 tons sunk, 22,000 tons damaged Munson and the Rasher had participated in one of the most successful war patrols ever conducted.
Criteria The Navy Cross may be awarded to any person who, while serving with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguishes himself in action by extraordinary heroism not justifying an award of the Medal of Honor.... The Navy Cross may be awarded to any person who, while serving with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguishes himself in action by extraordinary heroism not justifying an award of the Medal of Honor. MoreHide
Comments "For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. Crevalle, during the second war patrol of that vessel in enemy Japanese-controlled waters, from December 30 1943 to February 20, 1944. Vi... "For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. Crevalle, during the second war patrol of that vessel in enemy Japanese-controlled waters, from December 30 1943 to February 20, 1944. Vigilantly searching the seas for Japanese shipping, [he] pursued one hostile ship for fifteen hours and, driven off four times by enemy escorts, relentlessly returned to press home his attack, climaxing this prolonged chase and engagement by sending the enemy to the bottom. With only two worthwhile contacts picked up by U.S.S. Crevalle, he requested and received a five-day extension of the regular patrol period, setting out with renewed vigor to intercept Japanese surface units. Tracking one escorted convoy of nine ships covered by hostile aircraft from mid-morning until dark, [he] directed the gallant submarine in a bold night surface attack and succeeded in scoring torpedo hits upon six enemy vessels...and escaping damage despite wild Japanese gunfire and intense depth-charge barrages. Under his brilliant leadership, the Crevalle completed a daring patrol in the face of terrific opposition, sinking three freighters, one armed patrol tug and a sailing craft, and damaging four other hostile ships..." MoreHide
Criteria The Navy Cross may be awarded to any person who, while serving with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguishes himself in action by extraordinary heroism not justifying an award of the Medal of Honor.... The Navy Cross may be awarded to any person who, while serving with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguishes himself in action by extraordinary heroism not justifying an award of the Medal of Honor. MoreHide
Comments "For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. Rasher during the fifth war patrol of that vessel in enemy Japanse waters from June 22 to September 3, 1944, and as Commander of the Coor... "For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. Rasher during the fifth war patrol of that vessel in enemy Japanse waters from June 22 to September 3, 1944, and as Commander of the Coordinated Attack Group of two submarines during that period. Skillfully maneuvering his ship to penetrate strong enemy escort screens maintained around enemy shipping, Commander Munson launched bold, aggressive attacks in the face of heavy and persistent countermeasures, to score twenty-one hits out of twenty-four torpedoes fired, sinking five enemy ships totaling 22,000 tons. Planning and efficiently handling his own ship and another as a group, he enabled the other boat to sink two 10,000 ton enemy tankers and a large freighter of 19,500 tons..." MoreHide
Criteria The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or aft... The Presidential Unit Citation may be awarded to units of the Armed Forces of the United States and cobelligerent nations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy occurring on or after December 7, 1941. MoreHide
Criteria The Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal was awarded for for qualifying service within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946, under any of the following condi... The Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal was awarded for for qualifying service within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946, under any of the following conditions: On permanent assignment within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater; or, For service in a passenger status or on temporary duty for 30 consecutive days or 60 non-consecutive days; or, For service in active combat in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations against the enemy and awarded a combat decoration or furnished a certificate by the commanding general of a corps, higher unit, or independent force that the individual actually participated in combat. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy Cross may be awarded to any person who, while serving with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguishes himself in action by extraordinary heroism not justifying an award of the Medal of Honor.... The Navy Cross may be awarded to any person who, while serving with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguishes himself in action by extraordinary heroism not justifying an award of the Medal of Honor. MoreHide
Comments "For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer us the U.S.S. Crevalle on patrol in enemy-controlle waters from October 27 to December 7, 1943... Commander Munson took advantage of every favorable at... "For extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer us the U.S.S. Crevalle on patrol in enemy-controlle waters from October 27 to December 7, 1943... Commander Munson took advantage of every favorable attack opportunity and, fighting his ship with determined aggressiveness, succeeded in sinking or damaging an important amount of vital hostile shipping. Displaying skillful evasive tactics in the face of vigorous enemy countermeasures, he handled his vessel with outstanding proficiency and brillian seamanship, bringing the Crevalle through each fierce engagement without damage." MoreHide
Criteria The Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal was awarded for for qualifying service within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946, under any of the following condi... The Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal was awarded for for qualifying service within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946, under any of the following conditions: On permanent assignment within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater; or, For service in a passenger status or on temporary duty for 30 consecutive days or 60 non-consecutive days; or, For service in active combat in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations against the enemy and awarded a combat decoration or furnished a certificate by the commanding general of a corps, higher unit, or independent force that the individual actually participated in combat. MoreHide
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal may be awarded to service members who, while serving in any capacity with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievem... The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal may be awarded to service members who, while serving in any capacity with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement or meritorious service (but not of sufficient nature to warrant a higher decoration). MoreHide
Comments "For meritorious conduct...as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. S-38 during the seventh war patrol of that vessel from 28 July 1942 to 22 August 1942... [He] conducted a successful torpedo attack which... "For meritorious conduct...as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. S-38 during the seventh war patrol of that vessel from 28 July 1942 to 22 August 1942... [He] conducted a successful torpedo attack which resulted in the sinking of 8,000 tons of enemy shipping...and brought his ship safely back to port." MoreHide
Criteria The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal may be awarded to service members who, while serving in any capacity with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievem... The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal may be awarded to service members who, while serving in any capacity with the Navy or Marine Corps, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement or meritorious service (but not of sufficient nature to warrant a higher decoration). MoreHide
Comments "For meritorious conduct in action as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. S-38 during the fourth war patrol of that vessel from 22 February 1942 to 13 March 1942. With great daring and consumate skill th... "For meritorious conduct in action as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. S-38 during the fourth war patrol of that vessel from 22 February 1942 to 13 March 1942. With great daring and consumate skill the Commanding Officer delivered smashing torpedo attacks which severely damaged a 7,500 ton enemy cruiser. Severe enemy countermeasures kept the S-38 at deep submergence and further observations of the possible sinking of this valuable enemy veseel were impossible. The Commanding Officer skillfully evaded determined enemy counterattacks and brought his ship back to port safely..." MoreHide
Criteria The Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal was awarded for for qualifying service within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946, under any of the following condi... The Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal was awarded for for qualifying service within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations between December 7, 1941, and March 2, 1946, under any of the following conditions: On permanent assignment within the Asiatic-Pacific Theater; or, For service in a passenger status or on temporary duty for 30 consecutive days or 60 non-consecutive days; or, For service in active combat in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of Operations against the enemy and awarded a combat decoration or furnished a certificate by the commanding general of a corps, higher unit, or independent force that the individual actually participated in combat. MoreHide
Description The Battle of the Java Sea was a decisive naval battle of the Pacific campaign of World War II.
Allied navies suffered a disastrous defeat at the hand of the Imperial Japanese Navy, on 27 February 19The Battle of the Java Sea was a decisive naval battle of the Pacific campaign of World War II.
Allied navies suffered a disastrous defeat at the hand of the Imperial Japanese Navy, on 27 February 1942, and in secondary actions over successive days. The American-British-Dutch-Australian Command (ABDA) Strike Force commander—Rear-Admiral Karel Doorman—was killed. The aftermath of the battle included several smaller actions around Java, including the smaller but also significant Battle of Sunda Strait. These defeats led to Japanese occupation of the entire Netherlands East Indies.
The battle was the largest surface ship engagement since the Battle of Jutland in 1916.... More
Most impressive of all was Rasher's legendary Fifth War Patrol wen, in a single night's surface action off the Philippines, Cdr. Henry G Munson sank the 20,00-ton escort aircraft carrier Taiyo and three marus. During this same patrol the Rasher also sank the 4,739-ton Shiroganesan Maru. With 52,667 tons sunk, 22,000 tons damaged Munson and the Rasher had participated in one of the most successful war patrols ever conducted.