Jesse Barett Oldendorf

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Jesse Barett Oldendorf, Rear Admiral, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Allied Support Force Commander, 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. Rear Admiral Oldendorf engaged a powerful detachment of the Japanese Fleet, consisting of battleships, cruisers and destroyers, and in a short but decisive action practically annihilated the enemy force. Fleeing remnants were closely pursued by units of his command which, with the aid of cooperating aircraft, completed their destruction. His personal courage, determination and perseverance were reflected in the outstanding performance of the force under his command, which resulted in a brilliant naval victory and incalculable damage to the enemy. Rear Admiral Oldendorf’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. 337 (April 1945)