Nicholas Bauer Van Bergen

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Nicholas Bauer Van Bergen, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Gunnery Officer aboard the Light Cruiser U.S.S. MARBLEHEAD (CL-12), when that ship was bombed by Japanese planes during the Battle of the Java Sea on 10 February 1942. In addition to carrying out his own duties in the early part of the action, he subsequently assumed the duties of Executive Officer when the latter was wounded, supervising control of damaged areas, assisting in rescue and care of injured, and coordinating the work of all departments. His heroism under fire and efficient service not only contributed toward saving his ship, which limped into an East Coast port and safety, but also helped save the lives of many in the MARBLEHEAD’S company. Commander Van Bergen’s inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 305 (August 1942)