Highlights from Naval History
February 1945: The recapture of Corregidor is underway as minesweepers clear a pathway off the Bataan Peninsula. Despite Army air cover overhead, enemy shore guns will sink minesweeper YMS-48 and damage two destroyers—including the USS Fletcher, which is saved by a water tender’s selfless courage.

A Hero’s Sacrifice

By John J. Domagalski
February 2026
A tribute to Water Tender Second Class Elmer Bigelow, who posthumously received the Medal of Honor for his gallant actions on board the USS Fletcher off Corregidor in February 1945.
January 1862: The U.S. sloop-of-war Pensacola runs past a hail of fire from Confederate shore batteries along the Potomac as she makes the dangerous passage to Hampton Roads.

Silent Passage

By Rick Barram
February 2026
Rebel guns dotted the Virginia shore of the Potomac in early 1862, threatening the approach to Washington. The U.S. steam sloop Pensacola had orders to proceed past them—no matter what.
Lieutenant Ramsey (right) and one of his commanders, Major John Boone, stand amid the rubble of Manila. Both were awarded the Distinguished Service Cross in 1945.

Ramsey’s War

By Lieutenant Commander Thomas J. Cutler, U.S. Navy (Retired)
February 2026
For his extraordinary heroism and leadership he was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, the Silver Star, and the Purple Heart, among others.
Black smoke billows over Saigon during the 1968 Tet Offensive. Admiral Veth (inset) said of the U.S. media coverage, “I think the reporting was just plain miserable.”

Tet and the Media

February 2026
Based in Saigon, Admiral Veth served as Commander, Naval Forces Vietnam/Chief of Naval Advisory Group Vietnam from 27 April 1967 to 30 September 1968.


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