Joseph Francis Bolger

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Joseph Francis Bolger (0-56908), Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. INTREPID (CV-11), during operations in Philippine waters when his ship was attacked by a heavy force of Japanese aircraft on 25 November 1944. With exceptional efficiency, Captain Bolger directed his ship after two enemy planes crashed on the flight deck. By his prompt actions he not only held losses to a minimum, but also provided sustained antiaircraft fire against continued aerial bombard. Captain Bolger’s inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 342 (September 1945)

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Joseph Francis Bolger (0-56908), Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. INTREPID (CV-11), the Flagship of the Task Group, during sustained offensive operations against the enemy from 29 August 1944 to 9 November 1944. On 24, 25, and 26 October 1944, while this Task Group was in air striking distance of the main Japanese Battle Fleet and a large enemy carrier task force, Captain Bolger conducted operations on board his ship in such an outstanding and praiseworthy manner that enabled the full fighting strength of the ship and aircraft to be employed against the enemy forces. His courage and skill as demonstrated on 29 October 1944 when a Japanese plane made a suicide dive landing on the port gun gallery of his ship, was worthy of the highest praise. The efficient and prompt manner in which he immediately instituted measures to extinguish the fire caused by the crash and restore the ship to an immediate combat status was an inspiration to all personnel on board. His courage and skill were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Commander, 2d Carrier Task Force, Pacific: Serial 0356 (December 8, 1944)