John Michael Bermingham

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to John Michael Bermingham (0-062695), 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. PEARY (DD-226), during operations in enemy waters of the Philippine Islands and later Dutch Timor waters during the period from 10 December 1941 to 19 February 1942. On 10 December, Lieutenant Commander Bermingham prepared the U.S.S. PEARY for important missions following the bombing attack on the Cavite Navy Yard, and maneuvered his ship skillfully though subjected to numerous intense attacks by enemy bombers and Torpedo Planes, so as to bring her to her destination with a minimum of damage. While moored at Darwin, Australia, on 19 February 1942, the PEARY fought valiantly against prolonged enemy dive bombing attacks until finally, after sustaining five bomb hits, she sank stern first. Lieutenant Commander Bermingham’s inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command reflect great credit upon himself and are in keeping with the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 312 (March 1943)