Gilbert Eugene Cathey

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Gilbert Eugene Cathey, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron SIXTEEN (VB-16), embarked from the U.S.S. RANDOLPH (CV-15), in action against major units of the Japanese Fleet in the Inland Sea of Japan, on 24 July 1945. Leading a section of three dive bombers on a strike against an enemy battleship, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Cathey skillfully maneuvered in the face of intense hostile anti-aircraft fire and, pressing home his attack, scored a direct hit which contributed materially to the subsequent sinking of the warship. His airmanship and determination in the completion of his mission reflect the highest credit upon Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Cathey and the United States Naval Service.

Commander, 2d Carrier Task Force, Pacific: Serial 01865 (September 18, 1945)