Navy Federal Credit Union

Chester Carroll graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1924. He retired as a U.S. Navy Rear Admiral.

Awards Received

  • Bronze Star Medal

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Captain

    Division:

    U.S.S. Helm (DD-388)

    Action Date:

    December 7, 1941 – August 1944

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal to Captain Chester Edward Carroll (NSN: 0-58672), United States Navy, for meritorious service as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. HELM (DD-388), in action against enemy Japanese forces at Pearl Harbor and Guadalcanal, from 7 December 1941 to February 1943; and as Commander Destroyer Division NINETY-SIX in the Pacific War Area from August 1943 to August 1944. Quick to act when the Japanese forces made their surprise attack on Pearl Harbor on the morning of 7 December, Captain [then Commander] Carroll skillfully maneuvered his ship to evade the enemy fire and, by his expert seamanship, succeeded in holding the damages to his ship to a minimum. Gallantly directing the activities of his ship during the early attacks on Guadalcanal in the face of fierce enemy oppositions, and in subsequent escort and patrol missions, in that vicinity, he rendered valuable service to the U.S.S. QUINCY and the U.S.S. VINCENNES in effecting the rescue of 175 men from these sinking ships. Maintaining his Division in a constant state of material readiness while serving as Commander Destroyer Division NINETY-SIX, he contributed materially to the success of our destroyer operations, and his inspiring leadership, cool courage and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Captain Carroll and the United States Naval Service.

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Captain

    Division:

    Destroyer Division 96

    Action Date:

    November 11 & 18 – 26, 1943

    Pacific Fleet Board Awards: Serial 50 (May 14, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Chester Edward Carroll (NSN: 0-58672), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commander, Destroyer Division NINETY-SIX, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the assault on Rabaul Harbor, 11 November, and the invasion and occupation of the Gilbert Islands, 18 to 26 November 1943. Courageous and aggressive in the face of three sustained and intense enemy air attacks while operating within easy bombing range of Japanese bases, Captain Carroll fought his ships boldly in defense of the entire Task Group, inflicting severe losses upon the enemy. By his professional skill, valiant fighting spirit and unfaltering devotion to duty he succeeded in bringing his own ships through undamaged and in providing effective protection for the ships of the Task Group, thereby aiding in the success of vital missions in this war area. Captain Carroll’s inspiring leadership and courageous conduct under fire were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.