Rollin Morgan Batten, Jr.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Rollin Morgan Batten, Jr., Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of Navy Observation Scout Plane, engaged in a rescue mission off Guam on 4 July 1944. With utter disregard for his own safety, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Batten fearlessly brought his plane down within a mile of many shore batteries, and, in the face of an intense barrage directed at him by the enemy guns, proceeded calmly and deliberately to rescue a downed pilot and his crewman who were swimming in the water and also under enemy gunfire. His intelligent and courageous appraisal of the situation was responsible for the successful rescue, after which he took off cross-wind with the additional load, under extremely difficult circumstances. His purpose was carried out chiefly by virtue of his own bravery and his conduct was thoroughly in keeping with the highest traditions of the Naval Service.

Commander, Fast Carrier Task Force, Pacific: Serial 00322 (July 18, 1944)