Roland Nesbit Smoot

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Roland Nesbit Smoot, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander of a Destroyer Squadron, in action against the enemy from March to May 1945, in the Pacific War Area. Captain Smoot’s conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Roland Nesbit Smoot, Commodore, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander, Attack Section ONE, Destroyer Squadron FIFTY-SIX, 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. Leading his ships in a daring and successful attack on the enemy battle-line, by his courage, skill in combat, and determination, Commodore Smoot gave encouragement to his force in a manner that caused his action to be very instrumental in the success of this most difficult operations. This successful attack contributed in large measure to eliminating an imminent and dangerous threat to our transports and other ships in Leyte Gulf. Commodore Smoot’s high professional skill, forceful leadership, and gallant devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 345 (December 1945)