Peroneau Brown Wingo

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Peroneau Brown Wingo, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Fleet Tug U.S.S. NAPA (AT-32), during the defense of the Philippine Islands from 18 March 1942 through 9 April 1942. Throughout this period Ensign Wingo directed the fire of his antiaircraft battery and participated in operations of strategic importance in the Manila Bay area involving hazardous missions, while exposed to frequent horizontal and dive-bombing attacks by enemy Japanese air forces. Ensign Wingo’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. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 313 (April 1943)