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Navy Federal Credit Union
Henry
Stanford
Persons
December 19, 1906

–

December 23, 1994

Henry Persons graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1929. He retired as a U.S. Navy Rear Admiral.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Commander

    Action Date:

    November 30, 1942

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander Henry Stanford Persons (NSN: 0-62679), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action during an engagement with Japanese naval forces in the Solomon Islands areas on the night of 30 November 1942. After his ship had been severely damaged by a terrific explosion, Lieutenant Commander Persons courageously and tirelessly continued his efforts in saving the ship. Without regard for personal safety he entered gas-filled and flooding compartments in the performance of these duties. His conduct was a source of inspiration for his shipmates. Throughout and after the engagement his actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

  • Navy Distinguished Service Medal

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Rear Admiral

    Action Date:

    June 1964 – May 1967
    Board Serial 4018 (May 26, 1967)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Distinguished Service Medal to Rear Admiral Henry Stanford Persons (NSN: 0-62679), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States as Commander Hawaiian Sea Frontier; Commandant, FOURTEENTH Naval District; and Commander, Naval Base, Pearl Harbor, from June 1964 through May 1967. Exercising brilliant leadership and professional skill, Rear Admiral Persons directed naval operations in the mid-Pacific which were of great significance to the national defense, including contributions to the achievement of a breakthrough which significantly advanced the frontiers of anti-submarine warfare; planned and executed the recovery operations in the Pacific for the nation’s manned space flight program; and contributed markedly to the safety of life at sea. In addition to providing the highest level of support to the Fleet in furtherance of naval operations in Southeast Asia, Rear Admiral Persons contributed greatly to the morale of the Navy with distinction and brought to the people of Hawaii a responsive understanding of the Navy. By his outstanding leadership, professional competence, statesmanship and devotion to duty, Rear Admiral Persons upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.