USS SARGO (SSN 583)

 

James E. Smallwood MM3(SS)

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James E. Smallwood MM3(SS) Presidential Citation
Navy Marine Corp Medal
 

The CITATION reads:

"For heroic conduct on June 14, 1960 while serving on board U.S.S. SARGO (SSN-583) moored at the Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. While supervising the operation of charging high pressure oxygen into the SARGO's storage tanks, SMALLWOOD firmly and meticulously carried out the ship's safety precautions requiring isolation of the charging compartment from the remainder of the vessel. Aware of the potential danger involved, he denied entry of several of his shipmates to the Stern Room and kept the watertight door and bulkhead flappers shut. SMALLWOOD lost his life in a raging fire which broke out during the oxygen charge. Through his steadfast adherence to safety precautions, he undoubtedly prevented further loss of life and a probable major disaster. His courage and outstanding devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

On 15 April 1987, Submarine Base Pearl Harbor opened a new 17-story Bachelor Enlisted Quarters capable of housing 516 personnel. The culmination of over two years of construction now affords the single enlisted sailor the most modern living conditions in the Pacific. This building was dedicated on 26 February 1988 in the memory of MM3(SS) James E. Smallwood and the sacrifice of his life while performing in the service of his country.

WARNING - the PDF files are very large

Smallwood Hall Dedication Program
Courtesy Billy Smallwood
Dedication Honors Sailor
PATROL Article Courtesy Billy Smallwood