Sioux City Ensign Is Commended for Action in Pacific
Ensign Jesse L. Kuhlman, 600 S. Rustin Street, has been commended by the commander of an amphibious force operating in the South Pacific for his outstanding service while serving aboard a landing ship tank.
Ensign Kuhlman’s commendation read’ “The landing ship tank, LST455, on which you were serving was based in the forward area in support of the LAE operation. On 12 September, 1943, your ship was attacked by Japanese dive bombers from an altitude of 500 feet and though hit by one bomb your ship succeeded in destroying two enemy planes.
“Your ship was severely damaged and many of the crew wounded. Numerous fires broke out in compartments containing ammunition as well as topside in the vicinity of the gasoline drum stowage. Although you had received burns and cuts on the right arm at the time of the explosion you immediately organized and led groups of men into the compartments that had been severely damaged by fire and explosion and directed and assisted in the removal of the dead. Only after completing this did you present yourself for medical attention.
“Comdr. Task Force takes pleasure in commending you for this outstanding performance of duty. Your conduct and action are in keeping with the highest traditions of the navy of the United States.”
Source: Sioux City Journal, April 19, 1944
