The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Alexander Bacon Coxe, Jr. (NSN: 0-71493), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy from 1 April to 31 May 1945, while serving as Commanding Officer of a United States Destroyer. While on picket duty off Okinawa for a period of nineteen days, his ship was under attack on seventeen occasions. The heavy and accurate gunfire from his ship destroyed three enemy planes and assisted in the destruction of three others. In addition, fire fighting and medical aid was given to five ships damaged by the enemy during this period. His skill, determination and inspiring leadership during these actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Sponsored by:
Awards Received
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Bronze Star Medal
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Bronze Star Medal
Service:
United States NavyRank:
CommanderDivision:
U.S. DestroyerAction Date:
June 29, 1943
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Commander Alexander Bacon Coxe, Jr. (NSN: 0-71493), United States Navy, for meritorious service to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of a Destroyer-Minelayer operating as a unit of a Task Group during minelaying operations and bombardment of Japanese shore positions on Kolombangara, Shortland and Bougainville, British Solomon Islands, on the night of 29 June 1943. Operating in poorly charted waters under cover of inclement weather, Lieutenant Commander Coxe skillfully executed his assigned missions and brought his ship through without damage. By his courage and able seamanship, he contributed materially to the successful mining of waters used extensively by enemy vessels. His conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.