George G. Palmer

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to George G. Palmer, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. COLE (DD-155), while leading the first wave of assault boats against enemy forces during the occupation of the harbor of Safi, French Morocco, 8 November 1942. In a remarkable demonstration of seamanship and resourcefulness, Lieutenant Commander Palmer navigated the Cole by a difficult and hazardous approach through unknown waters into the crowded harbor where she landed all troops alongside a dock. This exceptional feat was accomplished in almost total darkness while the ship was under the crossfire of three enemy coast defense batteries and several machine guns mounted on the harbor jetties, without loss of embarked personnel or material damage. Lieutenant Commander Palmer’s inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 314 (May 1943)