Thomas James Beerman

The Navy Cross is awarded to Chief Gunner’s Mate Thomas James Beerman, U.S. Navy, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in command of the Armed Guard of the steamship Boringuem, especially for the very prompt action on October 30, 1917, when an enemy submarine was first sighted 70 yards off port bow about 11:45 p.m. The Armed Guard opened fire. The first shot missed, the second took off the conning tower, and the third hit the submarine which exploded. The fourth shot fell short. The submarine sank stern-first.