Ernest Evans makes USS Johnston the example at Samar

Evans and USS Johnston stand for several equally courageous Samar commands because Johnston visibly led the response. The other captains already knew their duty, but seeing Evans turn toward the enemy validated their choices and gave inexperienced wartime crews confidence. Disputed recollections make the exact wording of the famous announcement less important than the shared understanding that survival could not be expected and damage still had to be done. Evans remained in command after being wounded because his leadership offered the crew its best remaining chance.