From: DICTIONARY OF AMERICAN NAVAL FIGHTING SHIPS, Vol. I, pp. 123-24.

Born in Hebron, Ill., 12 July 1920, Elmer Charles Bigelow enlisted in the Navy 21 September 1942. On 15

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February 1945 while engaged with Japanese forces off Corregidor Island, Philippine Islands, Fletcher (DD-445) was struck by an enemy projectile which penetrated a magazine and set fire to several powder cases. Bigelow Water Tender, Second Class, entered the burning compartment and extinguished the fire. He died the following day of injuries sustained and was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.

(DD-942: dp. 2810; l. 418'6"; b. 45'; dr. 20'; cpl. 337; cl. Forrest Sherman)

Bigelow (DD-942) was launched 2 February 1957 by Bath Iron Works Corp., Bath, Maine; sponsored by Mrs. Verna B. Perry, mother of Elmer C. Bigelow; and commissioned 1 November 1967, Commander A. H. McCain in command.