Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Joseph Carl Beckman, Jr. (NSN: 0-189315), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Commanding Officer of Motor Torpedo Boat FOUR HUNDRED NINETY-SEVEN (PT-497), in company with PT-492 during their attack on a Japanese Destroyer in Ormoc Bay, Philippine Islands, on 9 November 1944. Having received information that a large force of Japanese warships and transports were attempting to reinforce the Japanese positions around Ormoc Town, the boats took patrol station north of Camotes Islands, hoping to intercept and attack. At o115, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Beckman launched his attack at the last ship in a column of three destroyers, having closed to 1,800 yards range. The two boats fired their torpedoes, and two minutes later a large explosion enveloped the Destroyer that had been attacked. Instantly the other two Destroyers placed their searchlight’s beams on the two PT boats and took them under 4.7-inch fire. With greatest skill the two PT boats covered each other with smoke screens, and through blinded by the searchlights, made good their escape. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Beckman’s gallant and intrepid attack on numerically superior, high speed enemy forces, and his highly skillful evasive action were worthy of high commendation. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received