World War II Database

1.  David Stubblebine says:
10 Sep 2015 10:19:06 PM

The citation for this award reads:
“The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Third Gold Star in lieu of a Fourth Award of the Navy Distinguished Service Medal to Admiral William Frederick Halsey, Jr. (NSN: 0-5035), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States as Commander THIRD Fleet from 28 May to 2 September 1945. During this period he displayed outstanding professional ability, sound judgment and brilliant military daring during the attacks on the Japanese home islands. During this period, forces under his command attacked 260 airfields, put 2,965 enemy aircraft out of action, sank 57 and damaged 100 warships, sank 529 and damaged 969 merchant vessels and small craft. In addition, seven bombardment operations were conducted against the Japanese home islands. Because of these attacks by attendant allied forces, Japan accepted surrender terms on 14 August 1945. Subsequent to this Japanese capitulation he organized and effected the Naval occupation of the Tokyo Plains Area. Through his energetic leadership and devotion to duty he contributed greatly toward the defeat of the Japanese Empire. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.”