John R. Tripson

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John R. Tripson, Chief Specialist, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while in charge of a Scout Boat from the Northern Attack Group during the assault on and occupation of French Morocco from November 8 to 11, 1942. Preceding the assault on Mehdia on 8 November Ensign Tripson, who was then a Chief Specialist, skillfully maneuvered his craft in complete darkness from the transport area seven miles off the coast toward the mouth of the Sebou River in order to locate and mark this locality for the assault battalions of the Northern Attack Group. After locating his position, he guided incoming boat waves of troops by prescribed signals to their proper destination. Although under fire from hostile forces, Ensign Tripson gallantly maintained his station until his mission was accomplished, thereby contributing to the successful landing of our troops.