The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Seaman First Class Frederick Luther Erickson, United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action against the enemy while serving as Helmsman aboard U.S.S. LST FOUR HUNDRED SEVENTY-THREE (LST-473), during operations against Lae, New Guinea, on 4 September 1943. Seaman First Class Erickson was severely wounded by the impact of a direct bomb hit which blew him out of the pilot house. Upon recovering consciousness he returned to his battle station, and, despite acute pain and waning strength, gamely endeavored to hold the stricken ship on her course until he was relieved by one of his shipmates. The conduct of Seaman First Class Erickson throughout this action contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.