Medal of Honor: Orson L. Crandall - USS Squalus Rescue - May 1939
The submarine USS Squalus (SS-192) rested deep beneath the Atlantic after a catastrophic sinking. In the darkness and crushing pressure below, one Navy master diver led the desperate effort to save the crew and recover the submarine.
May 13, 2026
Name: Orson L. Crandall
Rank: Chief Boatswain’s Mate
Branch: U.S. Navy
Date of Action: May 1939
Location: Atlantic Ocean, following the sinking of USS Squalus
Summary of Action
In May 1939, after the sinking of USS Squalus during a test dive, Chief Boatswain’s Mate Orson L. Crandall played a critical role in one of the most dangerous submarine rescue and salvage operations in naval history.
Serving as a master diver, Crandall directed and participated in difficult underwater operations conducted under extreme conditions.
The submarine rested deep below the surface, where darkness, cold water, dangerous currents, and crushing pressure threatened every diver involved in the mission.
Despite those dangers, Crandall repeatedly descended to the wreck during both the rescue and salvage phases of the operation.
His work demanded absolute precision and calm under pressure.
Any mistake beneath the surface could prove fatal not only to the divers but also to the trapped sailors depending on the rescue effort.
Crandall’s leadership in organizing and directing the diving operations helped make possible the successful rescue of surviving crewmen and the eventual recovery of the submarine.
Throughout the operation, he demonstrated exceptional courage, technical skill, and devotion to duty far beyond the ordinary expectations of service.
His actions reflected the highest traditions of the United States Navy.
Medal of Honor Citation
CRANDALL, ORSON L.
