Joseph RIK Carmichael, Jr.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Joseph Rik Carmichael, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Chief Engineer on board the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. BUNKER HILL (CV-17), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, on 11 May 1945. When his ship was struck twice during determined enemy air attacks, Lieutenant Commander Carmichael led his force in combating fires and repairing damage, thereby maintaining the ship’s maneuverability and fire-main pressure. By his professional skill, courage and devotion to duty, Lieutenant Commander Carmichael contributed materially to the saving of his ship and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Commander, 1st Carrier Task Force, Pacific: Serial 0715 (October 6, 1945)