Robert John Esslinger

The Navy Cross is presented to Robert John Esslinger, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism as Engineer Officer of the U.S.S. Kearny during the torpedoing of that vessel by an enemy submarine on October 17, 1941. After a quick and accurate analysis of the situation, Lieutenant Commander Esslinger, working under extremely hazardous and difficult conditions, coolly and skillfully surmounted all obstacles and kept the engines operative, permitting the Kearny to proceed out of the dangerous submarine area and make port. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.