Albert W. Rafferty

The Navy Cross is awarded to Seaman Albert W. Rafferty, U.S. Navy (Reserve Forces), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving on the U.S.S. Shaw, when that vessel collided with H.M.S. Aquitania on October 9, 1918, and the Shaw was cut in two and set on fire. Seaman Rafferty remained at the wheel until dragged overboard by the forward aerial. He was picked up in a dazed condition and coolly turned to work about the deck.