Edward NOE Blakely

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Edward Noe Blakely (0-073372), Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SHARK (SS-314), on the FIRST War Patrol of that submarine, during the period 16 May 1944 to 17 June 1944, in enemy controlled waters west of the Mariana Islands, his first as Commanding Officer. With daring and aggressive determination in the face of unusually strong and alert enemy escorts, which included both air and surface craft, Commander Blakely skillfully executed three well-planned and brilliantly executed torpedo attacks which resulted in the sinking of our enemy ships for a total of 32,200 tons and damaging of one 5,600 ton freighter. Skillful evasive action enabled him to escape enemy counter-measures and avoid damage to his ship. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Blakely brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Commander In Chief, Pacific Fleet: Serial 04780 (September 11, 1944)