John H. Morrill’s Navy Cross citation

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the NAVY CROSS (Posthumously) to

LIEUTENANT COMMANDER JOHN H. MORRILL,
U.S. NAVY

for service as set forth in the following

CITATION:

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to John H. Morrill, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Minesweeper U.S.S. QUAIL (AM-15), in combat against enemy Japanese forces during the bombardment of Cavite Navy Yard, Philippine Islands, on 10 December 1941. Despite the fires and frequent explosion of air flasks and war heads, Lieutenant Commander Morrill while in command of a small auxiliary craft, displayed extraordinary courage and determination in proceeding into the danger zone and towing disabled surface craft alongside docks to a safe zone. This prompt and daring action undoubtedly saved the crews from serious danger and saved the vessels aided for further war service. The conduct of Lieutenant Commander Morrill throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.