Paul Rooney graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1939. He retired as a U.S. Navy Captain.
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Paul Rooney graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, Class of 1939. 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 Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander Paul Chester Rooney (NSN: 0-82518), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of a fighter squadron aboard an escort carrier on 4 May 1945, during the Ryukyu Islands campaign. He displayed superb leadership and great personal courage when his ship was seriously damaged and set afire by enemy action. Immediately after the initial explosion, he plunged into the thick of the fire-fighting operation, continuously exposing himself to burning debris and exploding ammunition. Although repeatedly driven into the catwalk by the intense heat of the blaze, he continued to attack the blaze in a heroic manner, and his efforts contributed materially to the saving of the ship. His courageous actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.