Rae Emmett Arison

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Rae Emmett Arison (0-58847), Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as Navigator and Senior Officer in Command of the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO (CA-38), which was operating as a unit of a task force which engaged a superior number of Japanese vessels in the Solomon Islands area on the morning of 13 November 1942. When the Captain and Executive Officer were severely wounded, Commander Arison assumed command and fought the ship with great courage and efficiency until he was blown over the side of the navigation bridge by exploding shells. Although severely injured, he attempted to return to his station to continue throughout the engagement. His indomitable spirit and conspicuous gallantry were an inspiration to all aboard and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Commander, Southern Pacific Forces: Serial 0489 (April 27, 1945)