Edward Casimir Zacek

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Edward Casimir Zacek, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Boat Wave Commander during the amphibious assault at Salerno, Italy, on 9 September 1943. Undeterred by fierce opposition, Ensign Zacek courageously proceeded through heavy enemy gunfire off the assault beaches and while leading a wave of tank lighters to designated landing position was seriously wounded in the head and hip. Disregarding his own grave condition, he persisted with the landing operations and ordered the unloading to be continued and boats retracted for return to the ship before he would receive first aid. The conduct of Ensign Zacek throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 326 (May 1944)