Marvin Eugene Adams

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Marvin Eugene Adams (0-291125), Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron TWENTY (VB-20), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), while flying as Wingman on a reinforced search and attack mission on 24 October 1944, in waters west of the Central Philippines during the Battle for Leyte Gulf. An enemy task foci was sighted and Ensign Adams’ division was assigned a battleship (MUSASHI), as a target. Pressing home his dive bombing attack in the face of an intense barrage of anti-aircraft fire of all calibers, he released his bombs at low altitude, with complete disregard for his personal safety, scoring direct hits which caused fires and serious damage to the ship. His courage and skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Commander, 1st Carrier Task Force, Pacific: Serial 035 (January 20, 1945)