World War II Honoree

Paul Laverne High

Branch of Service

U.S. Navy

Hometown

Charleston, West Virginia

Honored By

Paul L. High, Jr.

Relationship

Son

IN THE FALL OF 1943, REAR ADMIRAL HIGH ASSUMED COMMAND OF THE USS BRYANT DD-665. THE BRYANT WAS ORDERED TO THE PACIFIC THEATER IN EARLY 1944. HIS SHIP RECEIVED NAVY UNIT COMMENDATIONS FOR ACTIONS IN THE SAIPAN-TINIAN ISLANDS AND IN SUPPORT OF AMPHIBIOUS OPERATIONS ON PELELIU. AWARDED THE NAVY CROSS, FOR ENGAGING THE JAPANESE FLEET IN THE BATTLE OF SURIGAO STRAIT IN THE EARLY HOURS OF 25 OCTOBER 1944. WHEN THE USS FRANKLIN CV-13 WAS SEVERELY DAMAGED BY KAMIKAZE ATTACKS ON MARCH 19, 1945. HIS DESTROYER DIVISION ASSISTED IN THE RESCUE OF THE CREW. ANOTHER NAVY UNIT CITATION WAS AWARDED FOR THIS ACTION.