Michael Holt Kernodle

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Michael Holt Kernodle, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Light Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. SAN JACINTO (CVL-30), in action against the enemy from 22 March 1945 through 19 May 1945, in the Pacific War Area. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Michael Holt Kernodle, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Air Officer aboard the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. WASP (CV-7), during operations at Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands during the landings of American forces on 7 and 8 August 1942. Commander Kernodle’s efficient and skillful direction of the air department of the carrier U.S.S. WASP contributed not only to the defeat of hostile forces during the initial landing in the area, but also to the success of long sustained and arduous operations in support of the Tulagi-Guadalcanal position. Commander Kernodle’s conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men, and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Naval Service.

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 313 (April 1943)