Mell Peterson graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1930. He retired as a U.S. Navy Rear Admiral.
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Mell Peterson graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1930. He retired as a U.S. Navy Rear Admiral.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain [then Commander] Mell Andrew Peterson (NSN: 0-63201), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. COOPER (DD-695), when that vessel was attacked and sunk by enemy Japanese forces during operations in Ormoc Bay, Leyte, Philippine Islands, the night of 2 – 3 December 1944. Aggressive and courageous in the face of bitter aerial attack and heavy fire from hostile batteries, Captain Peterson conducted a relentless bombardment against Japanese shipping and, pressing the attack with outstanding skill and relentless determination until the COOPER went down with her guns still firing, contributed materially to the damage inflicted on hostile ships and planes and to the thwarting of enemy attempts to reinforce his hard-pressed land forces. His superb ship-handling and daring initiative throughout an extremely hazardous engagement reflect the highest credit upon Captain Peterson and the United States Naval Service.