The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Clarence Crase Thomas, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious service in Command of the Armed Guard of the S.S. VACUUM, when that ship was torpedoed about 10.30 a. m. 28 April 1917. The ship started sinking so fast it was impracticable to open fire, and all hands took to boats. Lieutenant Thomas died from exposure in an open boat. It is believed that Lieutenant Thomas was first officer lost in the war.