Vernard Eugene Bivin

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Vernard Eugene Bivin (02873843), Seaman First Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving on board the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. SALT LAKE CITY (CA-25), during action against enemy Japanese naval forces off Savo Island, during the Battle of Cape Esperance, on the night of 11 – 12 October 1942. Although mortally wounded, Seaman First Class Bivin continued at his post as trainer on a broadside gun until a lull in the battle, performing his duties so well that the other members of his gun crew did not know he had been injured. Even as he collapsed, he was still trying to keep his pointers matched and his gun firing without cessation. His great courage and outstanding devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave up his life in defense of his country.

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 317 (August 1943)