DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY 
BOARD FOR CORRECTION OF NAVAL RECORDS 
701 S. COURTHOUSE ROAD, SUITE 1001 
ARLINGTON, VA 22204-2490 

Docket No: 7537-17 

APR O9 2019 

Dear :
 
This is in reference to your application for correction of your naval record pursuant to Title I0, 
United States Code, Section 1552. After careful and conscientious consideration of the entire 
record, the Board found the evidence submitted was insufficient to establish the existence of 
probable material error or injustice. Consequently, your application has been denied. 

Although your application was not filed in a timely manner, the Board found it in the interest of 
justice to waive the statute of limitations and consider your application on its merits. A three-
member panel of the Board for Correction of Naval Records, sitting in executive session, 
considered your application on 28 January 2019. The names and votes of the members of the 
panel will be furnished upon request. Your allegations of error and injustice were reviewed in 
accordance with administrative regulations and procedures applicable to the proceedings of this 
Board. Documentary material considered by the Board consisted of your application, together 
with all material submitted in support thereof, relevant portions of your naval record, an advisory 
opinion (AO) provided by Navy Personnel Command (NPC) dated 18 December 2018 and 
applicable statutes, regulations and policies. The NPC AO stated that you are not entitled to the 
Purple Heart Award. 

You enlisted in the Navy and began a period ofservice on 8 March 1944. You subsequently 
commenced another period of service on 23 October 1945. On 23 October 1947, you were 
discharged with an honorable characterization ofservice. Your Notice of Separation from US 
Naval Service (NAVPERS-553) indicates you were awarded the following: American Area, 
Victory Medal World War II, and Asiatic Pacific. 

The Board, in its review of your entire record and application, carefully weighed all factors, such 
as your desire to be awarded the Purple Heart award, and your contention that you suffered 
hearing loss while engaged with hostile forces in Okinawa on 1 April 1945. The Board noted 
your honorable and faithful service in the Navy, unfortunately, upon review of the evidence 
provided, the Board concurred with the NPC AO. The Board concluded there was not sufficient 
evidence to grant your request. 

It is regretted that the circumstances of your case are such that favorable action cannot be taken 
at this time. You are entitled to have the Board reconsider its decision upon the submission of 
new and material evidence. New evidence is evidence not previously considered by the Board. 
In this regard, it is important to keep in mind that a presumption of regularity attaches to all 
official records. Consequently, when applying for a correction of an official naval record, the 
burden is on the applicant to demonstrate the existence of probable material error or injustice. 

Sincerely, 



Executive Director