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(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Commander Victor B. McCrea, United States Navy, was awarded a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against the enemy as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. HOE (SS-258) during the FOURTH War Patrol of that Submarine in enemy controlled waters from 4 April 1944 to 2 June 1944. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. Hoe (SS-258)

    Action Date:

    January 26 – March 5, 1944
    Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 329 (August 1944)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander Victor B. McCrea, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. HOE (SS-258), on the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine during the period 26 January 1944 to 5 March 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the Southwest Pacific. During this aggressive patrol against enemy shipping between Mindanao and Halmahera, Commander McCrea made repeated night surface attacks against two escorted enemy convoys and succeeded in sinking a large loaded tanker and three freighters and in damaging a larger tanker. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander McCrea brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander

    Action Date:

    World War II

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Commander Victor B. McCrea, United States Navy, was awarded the Silver Star for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against the enemy during World War II. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.