Russell MAX Adams

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Russell Max Adams (0-278220), 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, in action on 26 October 1944, during the Second Battle of the Philippine Sea. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Adams scored a confirmed direct hit on a Japanese battleship. The action was successfully carried out in the face of anti-aircraft fire from the enemy fleet and low cloud cover helped in removing a serious threat to our ground forces in the Philippine Islands. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Adams outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Commander, 1st Carrier Task Force, Pacific: Serial 0533 (September 11, 1945)