Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union
John
Ward
Reed
October 10, 1914

–

April 26, 2011

John Reed graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1938. He retired as a U.S. Navy Captain.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. Seadragon (SS-194)

    Action Date:

    September 23 – November 8, 1944
    Commander in Chief Pacific: Serial 02655 (March 30, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander John Ward Reed (NSN: 0-81328), United States Naval Reserve, for gallantry and intrepidity in action in the performance of his duties as Assistant Approach Officer of the U.S.S. SEADRAGON (SS-194), during the ELEVENTH War Patrol of that submarine in enemy Japanese-controlled waters, from 23 September to 8 November 1944. Lieutenant Commander Reed’s sound judgment and thorough knowledge of attack problems assisted his Commanding Officer considerably in conducting operations which resulted in sinking enemy ships totaling more than 13,000 tons and damaging over 30,000 tons. His calm manner and devotion to duty contributed directly to the success of his vessel. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to the officers and men and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. Sunfish (SS-281)

    Action Date:

    March 31 – April 28, 1945
    Commander in Chief Pacific: Serial 030268 (June 15, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Commander John Ward Reed (NSN: 0-81328), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SUNFISH (SS-281), on the ELEVENTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 31 March 1945 to 28 April 1945, in enemy controlled waters of the Pacific War Area. Tenaciously closing heavily escorted enemy shipping, Lieutenant Commander Reed launched aggressive and well conducted torpedo attacks sinking vessels totaling approximately 13,200 tons, and damaging others. With brilliant tactics he brought his ship safely 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.