Edward Latimer Beach, Jr.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Edward Latimer Beach, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Executive Officer, Navigator and Assistant Approach Officer on board the U.S.S. TIRANTE (SS-420), on the FIRST War Patrol of that submarine during the period 3 March 1945 to 25 April 1945, in enemy controlled waters of the East china Sea. Lieutenant Commander Beach rendered valiant service to his commanding officer in penetrating mined and shoal-obstructed shallow waters in defiance of hostile shore-based radar stations and aircraft. By his excellent judgment and keen understanding of attack problems, he aided immeasurably in sending torpedoes into targets with deadly accuracy and contributed to the sinking of three Japanese cargo ships, one large transport, a hostile tanker, three patrol frigates, and one lugger, totaling 28,000 tons of shipping vital to the enemy’s ability to prosecute the war. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Beach assisted in bringing his ship safely back to port. 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. 345 (December 1945)