Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Gunner’s Mate Second Class

    Division:

    U.S.S. Tambor (SS-198)

    Action Date:

    January 5 – March 5, 1944

    Commander in Chief, Pacific: Serial 04780 (September 11, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Gunner’s Mate Second Class Carlos Clifton Howard, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action in the performance of his duties as Stern Planesman and twenty millimeter gunner in the U.S.S. TABMOR (SS-198) during the NINTH War Patrol of that Submarine from 5 January 1944 to 5 March 1944. His high degree of skill and ability at his station enabled his commanding officer to successfully conduct aggressive torpedo attacks which culminated in the sinking of an enemy tanker and three freighters totaling 30,117 tons. On one occasion, his fearlessness in manning the twenty millimeter gun at point blank range against an enemy patrol boat which was attempting to ram his ship, and his accurate and destructive fire caused the enemy to temporarily lose control of his own ship and inability to man his guns, thus enabling the Tambor to maneuver and avoid almost certain destruction. His devotion to duty and coolness during periods of severe enemy counterattacks greatly assisted his ship in conducting successful evasive tactics. His conduct was an inspiration to all with whom he served, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.