John R. Rock

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John R. Rock, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Officer in Charge of Naval Scout Boat LCT ONE HUNDRED NINETY-FIVE (LCT-195), during the amphibious assault on the Normandy Coast of France on 6 June 1944. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Rock, observing that LCT-305 was in sinking condition, with the Officer In Charge severely wounded, directed the evacuation of the stricken officer and leaving his own ship in command of his assistant, boarded the sinking craft to successfully beach it, and discharge its load. He further displayed courage and heroism when after the craft was hit and completely disabled by enemy shells, he swam ashore for medical assistance, despite the handicap of a broken arm sustained as a result of the concussion from enemy fire. The conduct of Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Rock throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 334 (January 1945)