Otto Ferdinand Kolb, Jr.

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Otto Ferdinand Kolb, Jr. (0-077161), Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving on board the Dutch war ship H.M.S. De RUYTER, in action against enemy Japanese forces from 1 January 1942 to 27 February 1942, during the Battle of the Java Sea. The conduct of Lieutenant Kolb throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.