Clarence E. Ekstrom

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Clarence E. Ekstrom, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Escort Carrier U.S.S. SAVO ISLAND (CVE-78), in a surface engagement with a large task force of the Japanese Fleet near the Island of Samar in Philippine waters during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. Captain Ekstrom handled his ship at all times in a highly expert and seamanlike manner. By his courage, skill in combat, and determination, he gave encouragement to his officers and men and to his air personnel in a manner that caused his action to be largely instrumental in the defeat of the Japanese task force. Captain Ekstrom’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. 341 (August 1945)