CWO 3 John N. Hennessy, was awarded the Navy Cross for heroic action, also directed against Japanese forces, but long before the attack on Pearl Harbor caused the U.S. to enter World War II. The event was the unprovoked bombing of the USS PANAY, a gunboat stationed in the Yangtze River above Nanking, China. Japanese aircraft launched a sneak attack on the vessel, killing two of the crew, wounding others, and sinking the ship.

This citation accompanied award of the Navy Cross to Mr. Hennessy. “As a Gunner’s Mate, 2nd Class, he distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism on the occasion of the bombing and loss of the USS PANAY on 12 December 1937. Mr. Hennessy was a member of the crew which courageously operated the machine gun battery against the attacking planes even though these guns could not bear forward from which direction most of the attacks were made. He remained at his post of duty until the ammunition was expended and he was ordered to abandon ship. His performance of duty on this occasion was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Naval Service.”

CWO Hennessy resided in Southern California.