William Edward Ellis

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William Edward Ellis, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane and Commanding Officer of Air Group EIGHTEEN (AG-18), embarked from the U.S.S. INTREPID (CV-11), in action against major units of the Japanese Fleet during the Air Battle for Leyte Gulf from 24 to 26 October 24 1944. Commander Ellis directed and led the aircraft of his Group in strikes against the enemy task force with daring efficiency that resulted in the sinking of four enemy carriers, and the sinking or damaging of other ships. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 342 (September 1945)