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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander Ralph Emerson Styles (NSN: 0-72590), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SEA DEVIL (SS-400), on the SECOND War Patrol of that submarine during the period 19 November 1944 to 11 January 1945, in enemy controlled waters in the Nansei Shoto, North China Sea and Yellow Sea Areas. Penetrating strong enemy escort screens in heavy seas, Commander Styles launched torpedo attacks against a hostile convoy and succeeded in sinking two enemy vessels totaling 17,500 tons. Boldly striking a high-speed Japanese Task Force, he contributed materially to the success of his ship in crippling an aircraft carrier and, by evasive tactics, avoided enemy anti-submarine measures. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Styles 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.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. Sea Devil (SS-400)

    Action Date:

    February 7 – April 20, 1945
    Commander in Chief Pacific: Serial 030276 (June 15, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Commander Ralph Emerson Styles (NSN: 0-72590), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SEA DEVIL (SS-400), on the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine during the period 7 February 1945 to 20 April 1945, in enemy controlled waters of the Yellow Sea. Skillfully evading all hostile anti-submarine counter-measures, Commander Styles launched five aggressive torpedo attacks on a seven-ship enemy convoy to sink four freighters and two escort vessels for a total of 17,600 tons. In addition, while his ship was performing lifeguard duty, he effected the rescue of three Marine aviators. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Styles 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.

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. Sea Devil (SS-400)

    Action Date:

    September 3 – October 25, 1944

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Commander Ralph Emerson Styles (NSN: 0-72590), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SEA DEVIL (SS-400), during the FIRST War Patrol of that Submarine in enemy Japanese-controlled waters of the Pacific, from 3 September to 25 October 1944. Skillfully maneuvering his ship into a favorable position to strike enemy shipping, Commander Styles launched a well-planned and brilliantly executed torpedo attack to sink a 1,900 ton hostile submarine. Although subsequent aggressive attacks were hampered by intense anti-submarine measures and extremely adverse weather conditions, he courageously and expertly directed this vessel in returning safe to port without damage. Commander Styles’ inspiring leadership and superb ship-handling throughout this hazardous patrol reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.