"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above
and beyond the call of duty as commanding officer of the USS LCS(L)(3)-122 during operations against enemy Japanese forces in the Ryukyu chain, 10 and 11 June 1945. Sharply vigilant during hostile air raids against Allied
ships on radar picket duty off Okinawa on 10 June, Lt. McCool aided
materially in evacuating all survivors from a sinking destroyer which
had sustained mortal damage under the devastating attacks. When his own
craft was attacked simultaneously by 2 of the enemy's suicide squadron
early in the evening of 11 June, he instantly hurled the full power of
his gun batteries against the plunging aircraft, shooting down the first
and damaging the second before it crashed his station in the conning tower
and engulfed the immediate area in a mass of flames. Although suffering
from shrapnel wounds and painful burns, he rallied his
concussion-shocked crew and initiated vigorous firefighting measures and
then proceeded to the rescue of several trapped in a blazing
compartment, subsequently carrying 1 man to safety despite the
excruciating pain of additional severe burns. Unmindful of all personal
danger, he continued his efforts without respite until aid arrived from
other ships and he was evacuated. By his staunch leadership, capable
direction, and indomitable determination throughout the crisis, Lt.
McCool saved the lives of many who otherwise might have perished and
contributed materially to the saving of his ship for further combat
service. His valiant spirit of self-sacrifice in the face of extreme
peril sustains and enhances the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval Service."
From Lt. McCool Jr.'s Medal of Honor citation, awarded in 1946.
May you be at peace,
Brian & Mel
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