John Remine Doyle

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John Remine Doyle, Ensign, 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 EIGHTY (VB-80), attached to the U.S.S. TICONDEROGA (CV-14), during an attack against an enemy Japanese warship near the Philippine Islands, on 5 November 9144. With his bomber damaged by enemy fire and blazing furiously as he initiated his dive, Ensign Doyle resolutely continued his bold run over a Japanese heavy cruiser, plunging through an intense barrage of anti-aircraft shells to release his deadly bomb at a perilous altitude. Scoring a destructive hit on the hostile warship, he pulled up from the dive and subsequently brought his burning plane down in a well-executed landing on the water. Through his steadfast determination and cool courage despite grave danger, he contributed in large measure to the sinking of a major enemy fleet unit and his daring airmanship and heroic combat tactics were vital factors in the success of his squadron’s coordinated attacks against Japanese surface vessels. Ensign Doyle’s indomitable fighting spirit and gallant devotion to duty under fire were inspiring to those who served with him and enhanced the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Commander, 2d Carrier Task Force, Pacific: Serial 0815 (January 6, 1945)