Carl Wilhelm Behrend

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Carl Wilhelm Behrend (334338), Machinist, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving on board the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. HOUSTON (CA-30), in action on 14 October 1944, off Formosa, when the HOUSTON, received a torpedo hit in the engine space next adjoining his after fireroom battle station. Observing from the upper level by his own flashlight that a group of men was struggling in darkness and rapidly rising water to enter an escape door, he went immediately below to direct an orderly exit and to provide light. Though able at any moment to step to safety he thought only of his men, standing aside for late comers until water rose above his head and blocked his chance of escape. Machinist Behrend’s utter disregard of self and resolute sacrifice for others was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Commander in Chief, Pacific Fleet: Serial 031793 (January 4, 1945)