HEYWARD-ALEXANDER

              Alexander S. Heyward Jr., USN, was awarded the Legion of Merit medal, in the name of the President of the United States by Admiral R. E. Ingersoll, Commander-in-Chief of the Atlantic Fleet. Actual presentation was made by Heyward’s commanding officer, CDR N. T. Stanley, USN, of Naval Air Station Pensacola.

                “For exceptionally meritorious service,” the citation reads, “as commanding officer of a patrol squadron in November 1042, when he transferred his squadron from Iceland to French Morocco during which time the weather conditions were such as to make the trip extremely hazardous and difficult. He immediately established an anti-submarine patrol, basing upon a Moroccan port. His squadron performed its duty during the next two months in such an efficient manner as to contribute materially to the security of the United States naval forces and United States shipping during the capture and occupation of French Morocco, and to eliminate submarine sinkings in an area where formerly they had been frequent. His leadership and performance of duty in the face of difficult and hazardous operating conditions were in keeping with the highest traditions of Naval service.”

Taken from the Camden, SC Chronicle, July 14, 1944