Cyrus Churchill Cole

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Cyrus Churchill Cole, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. BALAO (SS-285), on the FOURTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 6 February 1944 to 19 March 1945, in enemy Japanese-controlled waters of New Guinea. Skillfully maneuvering his ship into a favorable position to strike, Lieutenant Commander Cole penetrated the escort screens despite severe enemy opposition and launched a daring and aggressive torpedo attack to sink four enemy ships totaling more than 20,000 tons. Although severely depth-charged and fired upon by enemy guns, he courageously and expertly directed his vessel and succeeded in bringing her to port without serious injury to the ship or crew. Lieutenant Commander Cole’s leadership and devotion to the fulfillment of his hazardous mission reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.

Pacific Fleet Board Awards: Serial 61 (June 2, 1944)