Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Chief Pharmacist’s Mate

    Division:

    U.S.S. Northampton (CA-26)

    Action Date:

    November 30, 1942

    Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 316 (July 1943)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Chief Pharmacist’s Mate Walter Asa Eslinger, United States Navy, for gallantry in action while serving as a Medical Corpsman aboard the U.S.S. NORTHAMPTON (CA-26) during action against Japanese naval forces off Savo Island on the night of 30 November 1942. After his ship had been badly damaged by a torpedo hit and set afire, three times he climbed atop the flame-enveloped structure of the mainmast and led to safety a number of men who had been injured by the explosion and blinded by oil and smoke, although he was menaced by terrific heat and bursting ammunition from the boat deck. Discovering a shipmate who was suffering from severe burns and a broken leg, he administered first aid, and fitted splints, then lowered the helpless man to a raft alongside and remained with him throughout the night. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.