Commander HENRY J. IRWIN received the Navy Cross for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. PCE (R) 852 in action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Okinawa from April 1 to June 5, 1945. Remaining at an exposed and isolated station for a period of two months, Lieutenant Irwin maintained his ship and crew in a state of readiness to proceed instantly to the aid of ships damaged by enemy attack and, going alongside burning and sinking vessels on many occasions, effected heroic rescues of wounded personnel. With his own ship frequently under fierce air attack, he courageously directed his gun batteries on fighting off the enemy planes. Lieutenant Irwin’s gallant leadership and unwavering devotion to duty during a period of tremendous strain were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Commander Irwin joined the Legion of Valor in 1962 and resided in Pennsylvania.