"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life
above and beyond the call of duty as commanding officer of the U.S.S. Johnston in action against major units of the enemy Japanese fleet
during the battle off Samar on 25 October 1944. The first to lay a
smokescreen and to open fire as an enemy task force, vastly superior in
number, firepower and armor, rapidly approached. Comdr. Evans gallantly
diverted the powerful blasts of hostile guns from the lightly armed and
armored carriers under his protection, launching the first torpedo
attack when the Johnston came under straddling Japanese shellfire.
Undaunted by damage sustained under the terrific volume of fire, he
unhesitatingly joined others of his group to provide fire support during
subsequent torpedo attacks against the Japanese and, out-shooting and
outmaneuvering the enemy as he consistently interposed his vessel
between the hostile fleet units and our carriers despite the crippling
loss of engine power and communications with steering aft, shifted
command to the fantail, shouted steering orders through an open hatch to
men turning the rudder by hand and battled furiously until the
Johnston, burning and shuddering from a mortal blow, lay dead in the
water after 3 hours of fierce combat. Seriously wounded early in the
engagement, Comdr. Evans, by his indomitable courage and brilliant
professional skill, aided materially in turning back the enemy during a
critical phase of the action. His valiant fighting spirit throughout
this historic battle will venture as an inspiration to all who served
with him."
From Comdr. Evans' Medal of Honor citation, awarded on November 20, 1944.
Thank you for your service and may you be at peace,
Brian
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