RADM HUNTER WOOD, JR., then Commander, United States Navy. For extraordinary heroism in the line of this profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SMITH during the engagement with enemy Japanese forces north of the Santa Cruz Islands on October 26, 1942. When a flaming enemy plane crashed on the forecastle, its torpedo exploding, Lieutenant Commander Wood, despite fierce and determined aerial attacks, a raging fire, and exploding ammunition, handled his ship with such daring skill that he was able to maintain his station in the carrier’s screen and to furnish valuable protection against the attacking Japanese planes. Gallantly fighting the portions of his battery which were still effective, he minimized the damage to our own forces and dealt continued heavy blows on the enemy. His expert seamanship, outstanding courage, and indomitable fighting spirit were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Admiral Wood resides in California.