Navy Federal Credit Union

Carter Jennings graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1935. He retired as a U.S. Navy Captain.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. McDermut (DD-677)

    Action Date:

    October 25, 1944

    Commander, 7th Fleet: Serial 061 (December 28, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Carter Brooke Jennings, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. McDERMUT (DD-677), during action against enemy aircraft on 25 October 1944. By his cool and capable direction, Commander Jennings caused his ship to deliver such intense fire that three enemy planes were shot down and several others were driven off. Furthermore, he caused his ship to maneuver violently during the action with such superb judgment and timing that none of the several bombs dropped around him damaged his ship. His courage and conduct throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. McDermut (DD-677)

    Action Date:

    October 24 – 25, 1944

    Commander, 3d Amphibious Force: Serial 00394 (December 3, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander Carter Brooke Jennings, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. McDERMUT (DD-677), in action against major units of the enemy Japanese Fleet during the Battle of Surigao Strait, Philippine Islands, on the night of 24 – 25 October 1944. With United States Destroyer Units deployed n a flanking maneuver, as tactically disposed PT Boats opened fire on a formidable column of Japanese battleships, cruisers and destroyers advancing under cover of darkness towards our waiting forces, Commander Jennings placed the McDERMUT in an advantageous striking position within close range of the enemy force. Although silhouetted by the illuminating glare of star shells and under fire, he launched his torpedoes with precise timing in the second coordinated attack, rendering the enemy vulnerable to the smashing blows of our heavy Naval units. Subsequently retiring without damage from the furious engagement which resulted in the sinking of two Japanese battleships and three destroyers before effective return fire could be brought to bear upon our Task Force, Commander Jennings by his forceful leadership, professional ability and determination in the face of tremendous odds, contributed materially to the decisive defeat of the enemy force. His courage and devotion to duty throughout reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.