World War II Database

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1. In accordance with reference (a) the Commanding Officer reports that this vessel brought down one Japanese torpedo bomber by .50 cal. AA fire from berth S-3 at the Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, in the engagement at about 0758, December 7, 1941, and shared in bringing down a bomber at about 0820.
2. This vessel went to general quarters when the Japanese attack was first sighted by the watch aboard, and is believed to have been the first ship in the fleet to open fire. The torpedo bomber was headed west over East Loch preparatory to launching her torpedo against battleships off Ford Island. No other anti-aircraft were being fired at this plane when brought down. The bomber appeared to be making a horizontal bombing run in the direction of drydock No. 1. In both cases almost certain hits were averted.
3. The Commanding Officer takes great pleasure in commending the following named men for their prompt, efficient and courageous action in the face of fire of the enemy. Appropriate entries are being made in their records.
   
   Ensign Robert L. Eichorn, D-V(G), U.S.N.R.
   MORRIS, William Joseph, 266-00-41, SC3c, U.S.N.
   ROSE, Andrew Stephen, 243-52-75, CM2c, U.S.N.
4. Ensign Eichorn and Rose had the duty on deck and had the battery prepared by the time the regular gunners were able to reach their stations. Morris, on Gun No. 3, brought down the first airplane with his second burst.
5. The above named men are singled out because their particular duties placed them in the first line. The performance of the entire crew was equally outstanding. The anti-aircraft battery functioned without casualty throughout the engagement.
6. There were no personnel casualties or material damage aboard this vessel.

[signed] J.M. LANE.