RADM JOE WOOD BOULWARE was awarded the Navy Cross for extraordinary heroism as Commander of Attack Section Three of Destroyer Squadron FIFTY-SIX in action against enemy forces in the Battle of Surigao Strait on October 25, 1944. Leading his section through intense and prolonged enemy gunfire in a night torpedo attack against the flank of an advancing column of hostile battleships, cruisers and destroyers, Captain (then Commander) Boulwware placed the section in a tactically advantageous position to deliver a well executed attack and retired without damage to his units. By his leadership and courage, he contributed to the decisive defeat of the enemy force and his devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Mr. Boulware was a life member and resided in Florida. He joined the L.O.V. in 1987.