★★★ Memorial Monday ★★★
Lee Pancake '31 was remembered in part in the Lucky Bag: "A determined nature and steady application have helped him to steer clear of the dreaded academics. His willingness always to help out a pal has endeared him to all of his friends — and they are many."
Following graduation he served first in destroyers and then aboard USS Oklahoma (BB 37) for some of 1933. By 1934 he was stationed aboard USS Augusta (CA 31), flagship of the Asiatic Fleet. He remained there through 1936; in 1937 he came back to the Naval Academy for post-graduate instruction. Sometime in 1939 he was a Lieutenant and engineering officer aboard USS Russell (DD 414).
By October 26, 1942, he was the engineering officer of Destroyer Squadron 2 and engaged in the Battle of the Santa Cruz Islands.
"The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Commander Lee Sylvester Pancake (NSN: 0-70263), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Engineering Officer of Destroyer Squadron TWO, during the operations against enemy Japanese forces off the Santa Cruz Islands, on 26 October 1942. When hostile planes launched a vicious raid against the task force to which his group was attached, Lieutenant Commander Pancake, with cool courage and utter disregard for his own personal safety, unhesitatingly volunteered to go aloft to the director platform. There, although perilously exposed to violent attack by low-flying enemy staffers, he rendered valuable assistance in the spotting of Japanese aircraft until he was killed. His conspicuous initiative and unyielding devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country."
He was aboard USS Morris (DD 417), DESRON 2's flagship.
Lee was survived by his wife, parents, three sisters, and four brothers.
To Honor! ⚓
https://usnamemorialhall.org/index.php/LEE_S._PANCAKE,_LCDR,_USN
