Navy Federal Credit Union

Thomas Turner graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1941. He retired as a U.S. Navy Captain.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant

    Division:

    U.S.S. Purdy (DD-734)

    Action Date:

    April 12, 1945

    Commander Destroyers Pacific: Serial 04141 (November 20, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Thomas Andrew Turner (NSN: 0-100438), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Gunnery Officer of the U.S.S. PURDY (DD-734) in the vicinity of Okinawa on 12 April 1945. During a highly coordinated and overwhelming Japanese suicide attack the guns under his control destroyed at least four enemy planes and contributed greatly to the destruction of two others. His inspiring courage and devotion to duty in the face of savage attacks were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.