Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Chief Electrician’s Mate Charles William Ross, Jr., United States Navy, for heroism while serving aboard the U.S.S. Dewey (DD-349) in courageously directing and coordinating the efforts of the engine room and I.C. room to maintain, and when lost, to regain electric power during a typhoon on 18 December 1944. Twice during the height of the storm, with heavy seas washing the main deck, in a wind estimated at 115 knots, and with the ship rolling as much as 75-degrees, he voluntarily carried invaluable information between the I.C. room and the engine room, making his way across the main deck. His utter disregard of his own safety was at all times is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Navy and Marine Corps Medal

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Chief Electrician’s Mate

    Division:

    U.S.S. Dewey (DD-349)

    Action Date:

    December 18, 1944

    Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 385 (March 1949)

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Chief Electrician’s Mate Charles William Ross, Jr., United States Navy, was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal for heroic conduct during a typhoon on 18 December 1944, while serving aboard U.S.S. DEWEY (DD-349). Chief Electrician’s Mate Ross maintained electrical power on the ship and carried valuable information between the I.C. room and the engine room under hazardous conditions.