Rear Admiral Small passed away in Brooklyn on December 27th, 1944.

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Ernest Gregor Small, born in Waltham, Mass., on 6 November 1888, graduated from the Naval Academy and received his commission as ensign on 7 June 1912.

From 1942 he headed the Ordnance and Gunnery Department at the Naval Academy. On 10 April 1942 he assumed command of Salt Lake City and was subsequently awarded the Navy Cross for extraordinary heroism for his conning of the cruiser against Japanese surface units off Savo Island, 11-12 October 1942.

From January to August 1943 he served eminently as war plans officer on the staff of the Commander-in-Chief Pacific Fleet. He spent the next year in distinguished performance as Commander Cruiser Division 5.

Capt. Small was given the Navy Cross for "extraordinary heroism" as commanding officer of the heavy cruiser Salt Lake city during the night action off Savo Island, Oct. 11-12, 1942. In this action one heavy cruiser, one transport and four destroyers of the enemy force were sunk, another cruiser was badly damaged and several other Japanese vessels probably sunk. Capt. Small's citation follows:

"For extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as commanding officer of the USS SALT LAKE CITY in the night action off Savo island, British Solomon islands, on the night of Oct. 11-12, 1942."

"Due to his aggressiveness and determined action, and through his skill and devotion to duty, a superior Japanese force heading for Guadalcanal was destroyed or turned back. In one phase of the engagement his excellent seamanship was a deciding factor in protecting the heavily hit Boise from further damage."

"The success of this action prevented a planned Japanese attack on our positions at Guadalcanal and prevented the enemy from landing reinforcements on that island. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the naval service."