Melvin Leroy Chapman

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Melvin Leroy Chapman, Lieutenant [then Lieutenant, Junior Grade], 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 SIXTEEN (VB-16), embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), in operations against enemy Japanese forces during the Battle for Leyte Gulf, on 25 October 1944. Courageous and skilful in the face of enemy air opposition and extremely intense and continuous fire from hostile anti-aircraft batteries, Lieutenant Chapman boldly pressed home a hazardous dive-bombing attack on a Japanese aircraft carrier and, accurately placing his bomb, scored a direct hit upon his target, despite its desperate evasive tactics. A superb and intrepid airman, he contributed directly to the sinking of the enemy aircraft carrier and played a gallant part in strenuous aerial operations during this critical period of the Pacific War. His courage, daring tactics, and fearless devotion to duty were essential factors in the success of our forces and reflect the highest credit upon Lieutenant Chapman and the United States Naval Service.

Commander, 1st Carrier Task Force, Pacific: Serial 0766 (October 30, 1944)