"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above
and beyond the call of duty as Commander of a Submarine Coordinated Attack Group with Flag in the U.S.S. Sculpin, during the Ninth War Patrol of that vessel in enemy-controlled waters off Truk
Island, November 19, 1943. Undertaking this patrol prior to the
launching of our first large-scale offensive in the Pacific, Captain
Cromwell, alone of the entire Task Group, possessed secret intelligence
information of our submarine strategy and tactics, scheduled Fleet
movements and specific attack plans. Constantly vigilant and precise in
carrying out his secret orders, he moved his underseas flotilla
inexorably forward despite savage opposition and established a line of
submarines to southeastward of the main Japanese stronghold at Truk.
Cool and undaunted as the submarine, rocked and battered by Japanese depth-charges, sustained terrific battle damage and sank to an excessive depth, he authorized the Sculpin
to surface and engage the enemy in a gun-fight, thereby providing an
opportunity for the crew to abandon ship. Determined to sacrifice
himself rather than risk capture and subsequent danger of revealing
plans under Japanese torture or use of drugs, he stoically remained
aboard the mortally wounded vessel as she plunged to her death.
Preserving the security of his mission at the cost of his own life, he
had served his country as he had served the Navy, with deep integrity
and an uncompromising devotion to duty. His great moral courage in the
face of certain death adds new luster to the traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country."
From Capt. Cromwell's Medal of Honor citation, awarded in 1945.
"The Sculpin Story" from the "Silent Service" TV show.
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