John Edward Pace

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] John Edward Pace (NSN: 0-78715/1100), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer Escort U.S.S. JOHN C. BUTLER (DE-339), during action against major units of the enemy Japanese Fleet, in the Battle off Samar Island, 25 October 1944. When a formidable column of Japanese battleships, cruisers and destroyers attacked our small Task Unit of Escort Carriers, Commander Pace closed on the hostile disposition and, skillfully maneuvering his ship to avoid crippling blows from the continuous bombardment of enemy gunfire, launched a short-range torpedo attack, thereby diverting hostile fire from our almost defenseless carriers to his own ship. By his heroic action, he contributed materially to the eventual rout of this vastly superior enemy force and his courage, leadership and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] John Edward Pace (NSN: 0-78715/1100), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer Escort U.S.S. JOHN C. BUTLER (DE-339), in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, on 20 May 1945. When his ship was attacked and slightly damaged by six enemy suicide planes, Commander Pace directed his guns in shooting down three of the hostile aircraft and, by his cool leadership, saved his ship from serious damage or destruction. His professional ability, courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.