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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Commander Bruce McCandless (NSN: 0-71628), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and exceptionally distinguished service above and beyond the call of duty as Communication Officer of the U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO in combat with enemy Japanese forces in the battle off Savo Island, 12 & 13 November 1942. In the midst of a violent night engagement, the fire of a determined and desperate enemy seriously wounded Lieutenant Commander McCandless and rendered him unconscious, killed or wounded the admiral in command, his staff, the Captain of the ship, the navigator, and all other personnel on the navigating and signal bridges. Faced with the lack of superior command upon his recovery, and displaying superb initiative, he promptly assumed command of the ship and ordered her course and gunfire against an overwhelmingly powerful force. With his superiors in other vessels unaware of the loss of their admiral, and challenged by his great responsibility, Lieutenant Commander McCandless boldly continued to engage the enemy and to lead our column of following vessels to a great victory. Largely through his brilliant seamanship and great courage, the San Francisco was brought back to port, saved to fight again in the service of her country.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander

    Division:

    U.S.S. Gregory (DD-802)

    Action Date:

    April 8, 1945
    Commander, Destroyers Pacific: Serial 0-4289 (December 20, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Bruce McCandless (NSN: 0-71628), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. GREGORY (DD-802), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, from 1 to 8 April 1945. With his ship operating on the transport screen and radar picket stations during this period, Commander McCandless skillfully commanded his vessel throughout the operation and, on 8 April when four enemy suicide planes attacked, destroyed two and drove off the third attacking plane as the fourth crashed on the GREGORY. Capably directing his men, he maintained control of the damage, enabling his vessel to repel further attacks and return to port. His leadership and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Commander McCandless and the United States Naval Service.