Career
After varied duty afloat and ashore, he was ordered to United States Ship Pensacola (California-24) on 9 February 1939. Lieutenant Commander Olsen was serving as engineering officer during the night Battle of Tassafaronga, off Guadalcanal, 30 November-1 December 1942. When a torpedo hit flooded the engine room, he coolly and efficiently directed evacuation of survivors.
Attempting to carry another officer to safety, he himself succumbed to smoke and toxic gases.
United States Ship Earl K. Olsen (Delaware-765) was named in his honor. The ship was launched 13 February 1944 by Tampa Shipbuilding Company, Incorporated., Tampa, Florida.
Sponsored by Mistress H. East. Olsen, mother of Lieutenant Commander Olsen.
And commissioned 10 April 1944.