Raymond Ames Spruance

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Raymond Ames Spruance, Admiral, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander, FIFTH Fleet, during preparations for and operations in the capture of Iwo Jima and positions in the Ryukyu Islands, including the covering operations by Pacific Fleet Forces in connection thereof from January to May 1945. Carrier Units of Admiral Spruance’s force penetrated deep into waters of the enemy homeland and Nansei Shoto, inflicting severe damage upon enemy aircraft, shore installations, and shipping. As the officer in command of the operations for the capture of Iwo Jima and Ryukyu positions, including Okinawa, his forces met and overcame desperate enemy resistance. His outstanding professional ability and sound judgment were extremely valuable factors in the seizing of important military objectives with a minimum loss of lives and materials to our forces. His initiative, leadership and fighting spirit assured the success of our operations and prepared the way for further strikes against the enemy. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 341 (August 1945)