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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain [then Commander] Howard Grant Corey (NSN: 0-63132), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. KILLEN (DD-593), in action against enemy Japanese forces in Leyte Gulf, Philippine Islands, from 29 October to 17 November 1944. Subjected to hostile air attacks while performing screening duty for our forces in this area, Captain Corey capably maneuvered his ship to maintain accurate and advantageous position and, delivering accurate gunfire against the attacking aircraft, damaged five and downed four enemy planes. When his ship was finally struck by a bomb, he skillfully controlled the ensuing fire and flooding, thereby saving the vessel from complete destruction. By his leadership and gallant devotion to duty, Captain Corey upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Captain [then Commander]

    Division:

    U.S.S. Killen (DD-593)

    Action Date:

    October 24 – 25, 1944
    Commander 7th Fleet: Serial 0191 (January 9, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Captain [then Commander] Howard Grant Corey (NSN: 0-63132), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. KILLEN (DD-593), in action against major units of the Japanese Fleet during the night Battle of Surigao Strait, on 24 – 25 October 1944. When the large enemy Task Force, consisting of battleships, cruisers and destroyers, was discovered coming through Surigao Straits, Captain Corey courageously took his ship into action. Skillfully maneuvering in the congested seaway while directing the firing of his gun and torpedo batteries, he scored numerous hits on the powerful enemy ships which, implementing the fire of our battleships and cruisers, resulted in the enemy’s eventual destruction. By his gallant fighting spirit, Captain Corey contributed materially to the great victory achieved by our forces in this historic night engagement, and his fortitude and unswerving devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.