John C. Broach

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John C. Broach, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. HAKE (SS-256), on the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine during the period 27 December 1943 to 21 February 1943, in enemy controlled waters. Commander Broach courageously and skillfully maneuvered his vessel into position from which to strike the enemy and aggressively attacked in the face of heavy and persistent enemy counter measures, sinking three enemy vessels totaling 16,472 tons and damaging an additional three vessels totaling 18,000 tons. Further, he sank one sampan and sloop by gunfire. He handled his ship expertly to avoid damage from enemy countermeasures and brought her safely to port without injury to ship or crew. His actions and conduct were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.

Commander, 7th Fleet: Serial 01052 (May 7, 1944)