Battle of Cape Esperance
On 10 April 1942 he assumed command of "Salt Lake City" (CA-25) 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 in the Battle of Cape Esperance. 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. Rear Admiral Small died in Brooklyn, New York on 27 December 1944.