Earl Kenneth Olsen

Earl Kenneth Olsen, born 2 July 1903 in Brooklyn, New York, was a member of the U.S. Naval Academy Class of 1926.

Navy career

After varied duty afloat and ashore, he was ordered to USS Pensacola (CA-24) on 9 February 1939. Lieutenant Commander "Olsen" was serving as engineering officer during the night Battle of Tassafaronga, off Guadalcanal, 30 November-1 December 1942. When a torpedo hit flooded the engine room, he coolly and efficiently directed evacuation of survivors. Attempting to carry another officer to safety, he himself succumbed to smoke and toxic gases.

Awarded the Navy Cross

"Lieutenant Commander Olsen" was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross.

Namesake

USS Earl K. Olsen (DE-765) was named in his honor. The ship was launched 13 February 1944 by Tampa Shipbuilding Co., Inc., Tampa, Florida; sponsored by Mrs. H. E. Olsen, mother of Lieutenant Commander Olsen; and commissioned 10 April 1944.

References

* [http://www.history.navy.mil/danfs/e1/earl_k_olsen.htm Earl K ] at www.history.navy.mil Earl K. Olsen]