Joseph Edward Durik was born 9 December 1922 in southwest Pennsylvania. He enlisted in the United States Naval Reserve on 5 January 1942. Apprentice Seaman Durik was killed in action 15 March 1942 following the accidental firing of a torpedo aboard destroyer Meredith (DD-434). For his selfless conduct in giving first aid to an injured shipmate although wounded himself, Apprentice Seaman Durik was posthumously commended by Admiral Chester W. Nimitz.