Joseph F. Enright

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Joseph F. Enright, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. ARCHERFISH (SS-311), during the FIFTH War Patrol of that vessel in enemy Japanese-controlled waters in the Pacific War Area, from 30 October to 15 December 1944. Quick to act when his ship contacted a high-speed Japanese Task Force on 28 November Commander Enright commenced an all-out pursuit, maneuvering his vessel at top speed to outdistance the zigzagging enemy aircraft carrier. After six hours of determined chase, he succeeded in bringing the submarine to a favorable attack position ahead and, submerging to attack, expertly directed his ship in penetrating the escort screen. Still undetected by the enemy, he launched a full torpedo salvo against the carrier to strike the target with four torpedoes and inflict severe damage which later sank the carrier. Although counterattacked by his victim’s escorts, he skillfully evaded all hostile countermeasures and brought the Archer Fish safe to port. By his courage and determination in the face of overwhelming odds, Commander Enright contributed materially to the success of his vessel in sinking the 72,000-ton Japanese carrier. His leadership and zealous devotion to duty throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.