ARMSTRONG, JOHN MALET
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John Malet Armstrong, Commodore 2d Class, Royal Australian Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in action as Commanding Officer of HMAS AUSTRALIA during the capture of Lingayen Gulf and the landing on Luzon, Philippine Islands from 6 January to 9 January 1945. Although the AUSTRALIA was heavily hit, suffering heavy casualties and the disablement of a large portion of her anti aircraft guns and radar system, Captain Armstrong maintained her assigned station and carried out her bombardment missions.
Commonwealth of Australia Gazette 15 May 1947, p. 1325
Home Town: Australia
BAND, JOHN MOREL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to John Morel Band, Lieutenant Commander, Royal Australian Naval Voluntary Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in action against the enemy, as Officer in Charge of the Naval Beach Party that landed at Japanese occupied Finschafen on 22 September 1943. Lieutenant Commander Band landed with the first wave in face of heavy enemy machine gun and mortar fire. In absolute disregard for his own safety he repeatedly exposed himself in efforts to execute successfully the task that had been assigned him, and in doing so, was mortally wounded. Demonstrating tenacious courage, he continued to direct his group and was successful in diverting one group of landing craft which were about to land on the wrong beach in the face of heavy enemy opposition. As the result of his wounds he fell unconscious on the beach and was returned to a field hospital where he died. His daring leadership and devotion to duty contributed to the successful completion of a vital mission. He gallantly gave his life in the service of his country.
Commonwealth of Australia Gazette 21 June 1945, p. 1352
Home Town: Australia
FARNCOMB, HAROLD BRUCE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Harold Bruce Farncomb, Commodore, Royal Australian Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in action as Commander, Royal Australian Squadron, during the capture of Lingayen Gulf and the landing on Luzon, Philippine Islands, from 6 January to 9 January, 1945. During this period, in which HMAS AUSTRALIA was hit four times by enemy planes and HMAS ARUNA seriously damaged, Commodore Farncomb displayed a high degree of courage, determination and professional skill.
Home Town: Australia
Navy Cross Awards to members of Foreign Allies in World War II