Silver Star
Awarded for actions during the World War II
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain [then Commander] Henry Crommelin (NSN: 0-59421), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action prior to the landings at Tarawa on 20 - 23 November 1943. In his Division Leader with one other ship of his Division, he entered Tarawa Lagoon under heavy fire from shore batteries in advance of the assault landing craft. His ships succeeded in silencing several enemy batteries and effectively carried out all assigned and requested fire support tasks from inside the lagoon. Just before entering the lagoon, his Division Leader was hit three times by five-inch shells. The uncharted waters of the lagoon contained many coral heads and reefs. His skillful and resolute leadership contributed materially to the capture of Bititu and the occupation of Tarawa, Gilbert Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
General Orders: Commander in Chief Pacific: Serial 01891 (May 14, 1944)
Action Date: November 1943
Service: Navy
Rank: Captain
