“For outstanding heroism in action as a Fighter Direction Ship on a Radar Picket Station during the Okinawa Campaign, from April 30, to June 22, 1945. A natural and frequent target for heavy Japanese aerial attack while occupying advanced and isolated stations, the U.S.S. LOWRY defeated all efforts of enemy Kamikaze and dive-bombing planes to destroyer her. Constantly vigilant and ready for battle, she sent out early air warnings, provided fighter direction and, with her own gunfire, downed four hostile planes, shared in the destruction of five others and routed many more. In addition, she rendered invaluable aid to another ship of the picket group in rescuing survivors following the sinking of that vessel by two suicide planes. A gallant, fighting ship, the LOWRY, her officers and her men withstood the stress and perils of vital Radar Picket duty to prevent the Japanese from striking in force the Naval Forces off the Okinawa Beachhead, achieving a distinctive combat record which attests the teamwork, courage and skill of her entire company and enhances the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service.”
Source: NARA Modern Military Records (NECTM). Textual Archives Services Division.
