Doyle Murray Coffee

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Doyle Murray Coffee, Captain [then Commander], U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. BEALE (DD-471), in action against major units of the Japanese Fleet during the night Battle of Surigao Strait, on 24 – 25 October 1944. When the large enemy Task Force, consisting of battleships, cruisers and destroyers was discovered coming through the Surigao Strait, Captain Coffee courageously took his ship into action. Skillfully maneuvering in the congested seaway while directing the firing of his gun and torpedo batteries, he scored numerous hits on the powerful enemy ships which, implementing the fire of our battleships and cruisers, resulted in the enemy’s eventual destruction. By his gallant fighting spirit, Captain Coffee contributed materially to the great victory achieved by our forces in this historic night engagement, and his fortitude and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.