Herbert J. Valentine

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Herbert J. Valentine (0-10561), Captain, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Division Leader and a Pilot in Marine Fighting Squadron THREE HUNDRED TWELVE (VMF-312), Marine Air Group THIRTY-THREE (MAG-33), FOURTH Marine Aircraft Wing, in aerial combat against enemy Japanese forces in the Ryukyu Islands Area, on 25 May 1945. Leading his division in a bold attack against a numerically superior force of enemy fighter and bomber aircraft, Captain Valentine skillfully maneuvered his plane for maximum striking power and, pressing home his attack, shot down five of the hostile planes, probably destroyed a sixth and assisted in the destruction of another. By his courageous leadership and indomitable fighting spirit, he aided materially in the destruction of the entire Japanese group, thereby preventing damage to friendly ships and airfields. His skilled airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

SPOT AWARD, Commander, Air Forces, Pacific: Serial 2110