Carleton H. Wright

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Carleton H. Wright, Rear Admiral, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander, Task Force WILLIAM (TF-57), during operations against enemy Japanese forces in enemy-controlled waters during the Battle of Tassafaronga on the night of 30 November 1942. Rear Admiral Wright, at a critical hour in the campaign, intercepted the approaching enemy forces, inflicting severe damage to a number of enemy ships, and defeated the enemy’s persistent attempts to land troops and supplies on Guadalcanal. Rear Admiral Wright’s inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 318 (September 1943)