Beach, Edward Latimer, Jr., CAPT

His Navy Cross Citation reads:

The Navy Cross is presented to Edward Latimer Beach, Lieutenant Commander, United States Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity in action as Executive Officer, Navigator and Assistant Approach Officer on board the U.S.S. TIRANTE (SS-420) on the First War Patrol of that submarine during the period 3 March 1945 to 25 April 1945, in enemy controlled waters of the East China Sea. Lieutenant Commander Beach rendered valiant service to his commanding officer in penetrating mined and shoal-obstructed shallow waters in defiance of hostile shore-based radar stations and aircraft. By his excellent judgment and keen understanding of attack problems, he aided immeasurably in sending torpedoes into targets with deadly accuracy and contributed to the sinking of three Japanese cargo ships, one large transport, a hostile tanker, three patrol frigates, and one lugger, totaling 28,000 tons of shipping vital to the enemy's ability to prosecute the war. Through his experience and sound judgment he assisted in bringing his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

He served as Presidential Aide to Dwight D Eisenhower.

Honors

Sword of the Class of 1897 - United States Naval Academy
Giant of Adventure Award (1960) - Argosy Men's Magazine
Honorary Doctor of Science (Sc.D) - American International College
Magellanic Premium (1961) - American Philosophical Society
Theodore and Frankilin D. Roosevelt Prize in Naval History (1987) - New York Council of the Navy League
Alfred Thayer Mahan Award for Literary Achievement (1980; 2000) - The Navy League

 

2 × 126-cell Sargo batteries[4]
2 × low-speed direct-drive Elliott electric motors [2]
two propellers [2]
5,400 shp (4.0 MW) surfaced[2]