Ralph L. Holton

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Ralph L. Holton, Ensign, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Officer in Charge of a Rescue Boat from the Destroyer U.S.S. HAMMANN (DD-412), following the attack on the U.S.S. LEXINGTON in the Coral Sea on 8 May 1942. Ensign Holton persistently returned to the burning U.S.S. LEXINGTON, and under a hail of flaming debris from exploding bombs, ammunition, and gasoline, effected a series of rescues as officer in charge of a boat detailed to rescue survivors. He saved the lives of many who would have otherwise perished. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 315 (June 1943)