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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Charles S. Potter, United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while coordinating beach activities under intense enemy shellfire during the assault on Normandy on the Coast of France on 6 June 1944. Lieutenant Potter, wounded by enemy shellfire, refused to be hospitalized and when all personnel had been ordered to take cover, he fearlessly exposed himself in order to direct incoming assault waves to successful landings. Lieutenant Potter’s actions were conspicuous amongst his comrades and an inspiration to his men. By his courage, aggressive leadership, and unwavering devotion to duty, Lieutenant Potter reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant

    Action Date:

    August 8, 1943
    Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 334 (January 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Charles S. Potter, United States Naval Reserve, for gallantry in action while serving as a beachmaster during the landing behind enemy lines at Terranova, Sicily, 8 August 1943. Lieutenant Potter volunteered to go ashore in darkness with the assault waves. He daringly crossed the beach under fire, and although the area was believed to be mined, courageously marked its exits and limits for subsequent waves. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.