Richard Heldsden Phillips

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Richard Heldsden Phillips, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander, Destroyer Squadron ONE HUNDRED EIGHT, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Surigao Strait during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands on the night of 24 – 25 October 1944. This successful attack contributed in large measure to eliminating an imminent and dangerous threat to our transports and other ships in Leyte Gulf. Commander Phillips’ high professional skill, forceful leadership, and gallant devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.