Richard Philomen Smith

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Richard Philomen Smith, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane deployed over Samar in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, on 25 October 1944, in the Philippine Islands. Ensign Smith’s outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.