Robert Ferguson Durian

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Robert Ferguson Durian, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron NINETEEN (VT-19), embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), in action against enemy Japanese forces at Manila Bay, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 5 November 1944. Participating in a bold aerial strike against a heavy Japanese cruiser of the NACHI Class, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Durian pressed home a determined attack to an extremely close range and, despite intense anti-aircraft fire, scored a direct hit on the hostile ship. His courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Commander, 2d Carrier Task Force, Pacific: Serial 0550 (December 21, 1944)

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert Ferguson Durian, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron NINETEEN (VT-19) embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), in action against the enemy Japanese forces during the Battle for Leyte Gulf, on 25 October 1944. Participating in a vigorous strike against major units of the Japanese Fleet, including aircraft carriers, battleships, cruisers and destroyers, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Durian gallantly plunged through the enemy’s heavy barrage of extremely intense anti-aircraft fire and expertly maneuvered his plane to release his torpedo at close range upon an aircraft carrier, contributing materially to its ultimate sinking. By his brilliant airmanship, indomitable courage and daring tactics, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Durian rendered invaluable service in the infliction of extensive damage upon the Japanese forces during this Battle. His dauntless fighting spirit and unswerving devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.

Commander, 1st Carrier Task Force, Pacific: Serial 0765 (October 30, 1944)