Harold John Mack


Gunner's Mate Second Class Harold John Mack was a posthumous recipient of the Navy Cross.

Navy career

Mack was born December 29, 1917 in LeMars, Iowa. He enlisted in the United States Navy on May 18, 1938. He reported to USS Vincennes on September 14, 1938 after completing training at Great Lakes, Illinois.

Awarded the Navy Cross

During action against Japanese forces off Savo Island August 9, 1942, Gunner's Mate 2/c Mack was incapacitated by severe wounds in both legs. In spite of his injuries he continued to fulfill his duties as gun captain until ordered to abandon ship. After the loss of the ship, Mack was reported missing in action and was declared dead on August 10, 1943. For his "for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action against the enemy" Mack was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross.

Namesake

was named in his honor. She was launched 11 April 1944 by Consolidated Steel Corp., Shipbuilding Division, Orange, Texas; sponsored by Mrs. Gertrude Mack, mother of Harold John Mack, and commissioned August 16, 1944 with Lt. Cmdr. J. F. Nelson, USNR, in command.