Milton Parker Looney

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Milton Parker Looney, Fire Controlman Second Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action against the enemy while serving on board the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. NORTHAMPTON (CA-26), after the torpedoing of his ship in enemy-controlled waters during the Battle of Tassafaronga on the night of 30 November 1942. Organizing and directing a section of men for fighting the flames, Fire Controlman Second Class Looney labored tirelessly in the midst of exploding ammunition and in immediate proximity to the blaze until he had the fire on the boat deck under control. When the water supply eventually failed, he was attracted by cries of distress from a wounded shipmate in the mainmast and, while attempting to reach him by means of a line-throwing gun, was injured by a shell fragment which lodged in his arm. The conduct of Fire Controlman Second Class Looney 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. 316 (July 1943)