The
Gyatt was named after Marine private Edward Earl Gyatt, born in
Syracuse, New York the 4th day of September, 1921 and who enlisted
in the U.S. Marine Corps on the 26th day of January 1942. Private
Gyatt was awarded posthumously, in 1942, the Purple Heart, the Asiatic-Pacific
Campaign Medal and the Silver Star for service as set forth in the
following citation:
"For
conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving
with the First Marine Raider Battalion during the seizure
of Tulagi, Solomon Islands, from enemy Japanese forces, on
the night of August 7-8, 1942. Assigned to duty on a listening
post to the right flank and forward of his company's position.
Private Gyatt reported the approach of a hostile counter-attack
to his platoon commander and then, with utter disregard for
his own personal safety, remained at his post, inflicting
a heavy toll upon the infiltrating Japanese until he was killed
by an enemy hand grenade. By his skill, courage and indomitable
fighting spirit, he contributed to the eventual repulse of
the enemy and upheld the highest traditions of the U.S. Naval
Service. He gallantly gave his life in the defense of his
country."
The
sponsor of the ship was Mrs. Hilda Morrell of Syracuse, New York
mother of Private Edward Earl Gyatt, U.S. Marine Corps. |