TFH 12/24: CDR Laurence A. Abercrombie, USN

Laurence Allen Abercrombie was born on October 10, 1897 in Lawrence, MA. He graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1921. The beginning of World War II found him in command of the Mahan-class destroyer USS Drayton (DD-366). She was at sea during the attack on Pearl Harbor escorting the aircraft carrier USS Lexington (CV-2). Just over two weeks later, Commander Abercrombie and the Drayton found themselves escorting a convoy to Christmas Island. On this day, 70 years ago, Laurence Abercrombie's skill and courage as a commanding officer under fire earned him the first of the three Navy Crosses he received for his World War II service, our Nation's second highest honor.

All three of Commander Abercrombie's Navy Cross citations, from the Military Times' Hall of Valor:

Action Date: 24 December 1941


The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander Laurence Allen Abercrombie (NSN: 0-56922), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. DRAYTON (DD-366), during operations in the Far East on 24 December 1941 Commander Abercrombie skillfully directed his vessel in an engagement which resulted in the destruction of an enemy vessel. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.


Action Date: 22 October 1942


The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Commander Laurence Allen Abercrombie (NSN: 0-56922), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as the Commanding Officer of Destroyer Division NINE, which engaged Japanese naval forces in a daring daylight raid on the enemy patrol line south of the Gilbert Islands on 22 October 1942. Commander Abercrombie skillfully maneuvered his division, exercising such brilliant tactical judgment that heavy damage was inflicted upon the enemy. Two enemy vessels were sunk by the gunfire of his force, and repeated air attacks were repelled without damage to the ships or crews under his command. Through his leadership this bold mission was brought to a highly successful conclusion. His courageous conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Naval Service.


Action Date: 17 February 1943


The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Navy Cross to Commander Laurence Allen Abercrombie (NSN: 0-56922), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. DRAYTON (DD-366), as Screen Commander of a Task Force unit during action against Japanese aerial forces in the Solomon Islands area on 17 February 1943. By the accurate and timely warning given by the ships under his command, Commander Abercrombie enabled the task unit commander to dispose his transports and destroyers for the most effective action against hostile Torpedo Planes. Despite the difficulties and hazards of a night engagement during which five Japanese planes were destroyed, Commander Abercrombie brought his forces through without casualty or damage. Commander Abercrombie's inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.

We have much to be thankful for the skill and gallantry of our sailors past and present. Laurence Abercrombie retired from the Navy as a Rear Admiral and he passed away on May 3, 1973.

USS Drayton served throughout World War II in the Pacific, earning eleven battle stars. She was decommissioned on October 9, 1945 and sold to be scrapped on December 20, 1946.