Arthur Laurence Dowling

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Arthur Laurence Dowling, Lieutenant Commander [the Lieutenant], U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Rescue Vessel U.S.S. Patrol Craft Escort EIGHT HUNDRED FIFTY-FIVE (PCE(R) 855), in action against enemy Japanese forces during the amphibious assault and capture of Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, from April to June 1945. Operating at an isolated and exposed station for a prolonged period of intensive combat, Lieutenant Commander Dowling repeatedly brought his ship alongside burning and sinking ships and, although frequently forced to fight off enemy air attack during rescue operations, valiantly directed the rescue of numerous survivors of these stricken ships. His inspiring leadership, intrepid spirit and courageous devotion to duty reflect t he highest credit upon Lieutenant Commander Dowling and the United States Naval Service.

Commander, Amphibious Forces, Pacific: Serial 03179 (December 1, 1945)