Frank Andrews graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1942. He retired as a U.S. Navy Captain.
Frank Andrews graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1942. He retired as a U.S. Navy Captain.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Lieutenant, Junior Grade [then Ensign] Frank Arland Andrews (NSN: 0-111635), United States Navy, for heroism at the risk of life while serving aboard the U.S.S. DUNCAN (DD-485). Subsequent to the torpedoing and sinking of the U.S.S. WASP on the afternoon of 15 September 1942, the DUNCAN picked up a total of 721 officers and men, members of her crew. Lieutenant, Junior Grade Andrews, with two other officers, repeatedly took their boats through waters covered with burning gasoline to drag survivors clear of the burning areas. Although specifically warned that large quantities of gasoline were stored immediately below heavily burning areas of the WASP and would probably explode at any moment each of these officers took his boat under the starboard bow of the WASP and rescued personnel trapped in the forward gun galleys and on the flight deck. The water around the bow of the WASP was covered by burning gasoline and these groups were unable to jump clear of the flaming areas of the water. Fire and exploding ammunition had cut off their escape to other parts of the ship. In addition to the imminent danger from explosion of gasoline, occupants of these boats were further menaced by fragments from 20-mm. ammunition boxes and 5-inch shells continuously exploding from the effects of the fire. Undoubtedly a large number of survivors owe their escape from death or serious injury to the courage and skill of the officers and coxswains of these boats. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Andrews boat picked up Rear Admiral Noyes, USN, and Captain Forrest Sherman, USN, and placed them aboard the U.S.S. FARENHOLD when the DUNCAN cleared the area. Captain Sherman personally commended Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Andrews to the writer for his forcefulness and initiative, and the skill with which he handled his boat.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Frank Arland Andrews (NSN: 0-111635), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action in the performance of his duties in a United States Submarine during a War Patrol of that vessel. As Assistant Approach Officer, his outstanding skill, excellent judgment and thorough knowledge of attack problems assisted his Commanding Officer considerably in conducting attacks which resulted in the sinking of enemy ships totaling approximately 25,000 tons. His coolness and devotion to duty contributed directly to the success of his vessel in evading strong enemy countermeasures. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to the officers and men in his ship, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.