Thomas Joel Maloy

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Thomas Joel Maloy, Chief Watertender, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving on board the Light Cruiser U.S.S. ATLANTA (CL-51), during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island on the night of 12 – 13 November, 1942. After a torpedo had struck the vessel and his station in No. 1 fireroom was flooding rapidly, Chief Watertender Maloy promptly ordered his crew to abandon the area while he remained behind until compelled to relinquish all hope for further use of the fireroom. Subsequently, obtaining an oxygen breathing apparatus, he proceeded to investigate conditions in the forward engine room and was killed while performing this task. The conduct of Chief Watertender Maloy throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was 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. 314 (May 1943)