Chester M. Locke

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Chester M. Locke, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of this profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. HAZELWOOD (DD-531), in operations against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Okinawa on 29 April 1945. When a suicide plane demolished the superstructure and severely damaged the forward fire room, emergency diesel room and I.C. room on his vessel, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Locke immediately assumed command of the stricken ship and, braving exploding ammunition and fires, valiantly directed salvage operation, thereby saving the Hazelwood from certain destruction. His direct actions, resourceful leadership and determined devotion to duty upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.