Herbert Augustus Peterson

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Herbert Augustus Peterson, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer, Naval Combat Demolition Group 125.2.3 during the amphibious assault on the Normandy Coast of France on 6 June 1944. Lieutenant Commander Peterson, commanding a detachment of naval demolition men, landed with the first wave at Utah Beach, and cleared lanes through the enemy barriers so that succeeding waves could gain the beach. Lieutenant Commander Peterson’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.