Marley Ollen Polk

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Marley Ollen Polk, Machinist, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving on board the Destroyer U.S.S. JOHNSTON (DD-557), in action against the enemy when his ship was attacked at sea in Philippine waters during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. While his ship was being hit by terrific salvos from enemy gun batteries, Machinist Polk courageously volunteered to go below and close the overboard discharge valve from the main condenser in an effort to check the flooding of that compartment. Swimming through dangerous, debris-laden waters, he reached the valve and was in the act of closing it when additional hits in the engine room caused his death. Machinist Polk’s initiative, resolute determination and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 341 (August 1945)