George S. Klatt

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to George S. Klatt (222792), Platoon Sergeant, U.S. Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving as Gun Captain of a 1.1 inch mount aboard the U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO (CA-38) during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island on the night of 12 – 13 November, 1942. Although severely wounded at the outset of the engagement, Platoon Sergeant Klatt, with cool courage and complete disregard for his own personal safety, effectively directed his men in the vital task of extinguishing fires and controlling damage. By his sturdy endurance and grim determination in the face of intense pain and waning strength, he inspired his men with an aggressive fighting spirit which contributed in a large measure to the victory achieved by our forces in this notable engagement. He gallantly gave up his life in the service of his country.

SPOT AWARD (November 1942)