Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Ensign

Unit:

U.S.S. Skate (SS-305)

Awarded on:

October 7th, 1943

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Ensign Francis Kay, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and bravery under fire as Officer in Charge of the rescue party of the U.S.S. SKATE (SS-305), on 7 October 1943, while carrying out the hazardous mission of rescuing two aviators who had been shot down near the shores of an enemy base during an attack by our forces. Although under constant and accurate enemy fire, Ensign Kay and his party remained on deck with utter disregard for their own safety and successfully accomplished the rescue of two aviators who had been shot down within 5000 yards of a strong enemy base. His conduct throughout was a brilliant example of leadership and determination and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the naval service.