#7255 • Silver Napkin Ring of WWII Hero William Edwin Hank

Part of Collectors | April 24, 2025 at 10:00 AM (live auction by Alderfer Auction)

High bid $100.00

Status: Sold

Sterling silver napkin ring in flat oblong form measuring 1.25" x2.75" x0.75" exhibiting block engraving on obverse "WILLIAM EDWIN HANK" and on the reverse "U.S.S. TEXAS, U.S.S. NEW YORK, U.S.S. BRUCE". William Edwin Hank (1902-1942) graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1925. Before World War II, he served on several shore stations and the ships USS Texas (battleship) USS New York (battleship), USS Bruce (destroyer) USS Hull (destroyer), and USS Saratoga (aircraft carrier). Hank was promoted to lieutenant commander in 1940 and on April 1, 1942 was given command of the destroyer USS Laffey. He participated in several naval actions in the Pacific theater and while commanding the Laffey during the Battle of Cape Esperance (October 11 thru 12, 1942) was awarded the Navy Cross for his superior command of his ship in the battle. On November 12 thru 13, 1942 a Japanese naval force of 2-battleships, 1-light cruiser and 11-destroyers fought a United States naval force of 2-heavy cruisers, 3-light cruisers and 8-destroyers in the 1st naval battle of Guadalcanal. The USS Laffey commanded by Hank, fought in close action against the Japanese battleship Hiei and was hit by fire from several other Japanese ships resulting in the Laffey exploding and sinking with the loss of 59 men including Hank. Lieutenant Commander Hank was awarded his 2nd Navy Cross (posthumously) for his actions in this battle. The napkin ring exhibits some wear and bends and was used by Hank in the late 1920's.