Andrew Kenneth Waterman

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Andrew Kenneth Waterman (02340582), Aviation Machinist’s Mate First Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Waist Gunner of a Navy Patrol Plane in Patrol Squadron ONE HUNDRED ONE (VP-101), Patrol Wing TEN (PatWing-10), in action against enemy Japanese naval forces located near Jolo, in the Philippine Islands, on the morning of 27 December 1941. In the ensuing action, Japanese Zero fighters and anti-aircraft bursts filled the air around the harbor, but the U.S. Navy PBY-4 bombers made their approach, dropped their bombs and inflicted heavy damage upon several enemy war and merchant ships. Although he was wounded shortly after the approach was made, Aviation Machinist’s Mate First Class Waterman shot down one enemy airplane before being mortally wounded and, remaining at his station, continued to fire upon the Japanese Zero fighters until enemy bullets killed him at his post. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 304 (July 1942)