Edward Sylvester Clapp was born on June 3, 1906 in Atwood, Illinois.  He died at the age of 85 on June 6, 1991 and is buried at Eagle Point National Cemetery in Eagle Point, Oregon, where his memorial marker reports he served in the Navy during World War II and Korea.  Historical records report that he was awarded the Navy Cross for his heroic actions aboard the carrier USS Enterprise (CV-6) on October 15, 1942.

NAVY  CROSS  CITATION

“The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Carpenter's Mate Edward Sylvester Clapp, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving on board the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), in the Pacific War Area on 15 October 1942.  While a raging fire was in progress on the gun gallery, Carpenter's Mate Clapp proceeded to that area and threw overboard hot unexploded shells and unburned powder charges, thereby preventing the explosion of this ammunition and consequent damage to the ship.  With complete disregard for his own safety, he continued his search for other ammunition and persisted in his task of combating fire.  His exceptional courage and determined actions removed a serious threat of damage to the ship and aided materially in bringing the fire under control.  Carpenter's Mate Clapp's conduct on this occasion was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Naval Service.”

Submitted by CDR Roy A. Mosteller, USNR (Ret)