Ralph R. Anderson

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Ralph R. Anderson (0-124734), Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot and Leader of a Division of carrier-based Navy Torpedo Planes participating in a coordinated bombing attack against major units of the Japanese Navy in the heavily defended fleet anchorage at Kure, on the Inland Sea of Japan, on 28 July 1945. Despite intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire from ship and shore batteries, Lieutenant Anderson so pressed home his attack that he obtained a direct hit on a heavy cruiser which was destroyed that day as a result of carrier plane attacks. His heroic conduct and skillful airmanship were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Commander, 2d Carrier Task Force, Pacific: Serial 01835 (September 17, 1945)