Navy Federal Credit Union

Alvin Malstrom graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1922. He retired as a U.S. Navy Rear Admiral.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Captain

    Division:

    U.S.S. Sangamon (CVE-26)

    Action Date:

    May 4, 1945

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Alvin Ingersoll Malstrom (NSN: 0-57668), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SANGAMON (CVE-26), during operations against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Okinawa on 4 May 1945. When his ship was severely damaged by an enemy suicide plane and raging fires broke out on the hangar deck and among gassed and armed planes on the flight deck, Captain Malstrom directed the fire-fighting operations from the bridge until the island structure was enveloped in flames, causing intense heat and suffocating smoke. Beset by darkness, low water pressure caused by broken risers and temporary loss of electric power, as well as by the complete absence of communications, he continued to direct overall fire-fighting activities which resulted in the saving of his ship. By his leadership, courage and devotion to duty, Captain Malstrom upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.