Edward Nelson Parker

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Edward Nelson Parker, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander, Destroyer Division FIFTY, in action against enemy Japanese naval forces at Badoeng Straits off the Island of Bali, Netherlands East Indies, on the night of 19 – 20 February 1942. Lieutenant Commander Parker exercised capable leadership and skill with the result that several hits were scored on the opposing forces. Following his attack he withdrew his forces from grave danger without serious damage, a credit to his excellent judgment and fine seamanship. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 306 (September 1942)

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Navy Cross to Edward Nelson Parker, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander, Destroyer Division FIFTEEN (DesDiv 15), aboard the Destroyer U.S.S. Cushing (DD-376), during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island on the night of 12 – 13 November, 1942. The force to which he was attached engaged at close quarters and defeated a superior enemy force. Commander Parker’s daring and determination contributed materially to the victory which prevented the enemy from accomplishing his purposes. Lieutenant Commander Parker’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. 317 (August 1943)

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Edward Nelson Parker, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. PAROTT (DD-218, and for extreme courage and complete disregard for his own personal safety in the face of heavy opposition during the Battle of Makassar Strait, on the night of 23 – 24 January 1942, in delivering a successful attack upon enemy Japanese forces off Balikpapan, Borneo, Netherlands East Indies. Lieutenant Commander Parker directed his destroyer through a large concentration of enemy craft and succeeded by his skillful maneuvering in inflicting heavy damage on the enemy. This action and the high morale of his command reflect most favorably on Lieutenant Commander Parker’s ability a leader and officer, and are in keeping with the best traditions of the United States Naval Service.