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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Captain Alexander Rieman Early, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. CANBERRA (CA-70), in action against enemy Japanese forces off Formosa, on 13 and 16 October 1944. When his cruiser was torpedoed in an enemy air attack on the evening of 13 October, Captain Early continued to fight his ship against the hostile aircraft while directing damage control measures and supervising the ship’s being taken in tow by another cruiser. Again, three days later, Captain Early inspired his officers and men to fight through another air attack, to bring their ship finally to safety. By his expert seamanship, determination and indomitable courage, Captain Early contributed directly to the preservation of a valuable combat vessel, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Captain

    Action Date:

    1943
    Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 326 (May 1944)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Captain Alexander Rieman Early, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Chief of Staff to Commander Amphibious Force, Atlantic Fleet, during the invasion of Sicily in 1943. With profound understanding of objectives and methods, Captain Early skillfully integrated staff sections into an efficient organization.

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Captain

    Division:

    U.S.S. Canberra

    Action Date:

    December 7, 1941 – October 13, 1944
    Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 357 (December 1946)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Legion of Merit to Captain Alexander Rieman Early, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. CANBERRA and Commander Destroyer Squadron 1, at New Guinea, Marianas, Marshall and Caroline Islands from 7 December 1941 to 13 October 1944. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Captain Early and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.