Fighting Squadron 16 (VF-16)

Action:
Citation:
“For extraordinary heroism in action against enemy Japanese forces in the air, ashore and afloat in the Pacific War Area from September 18, 1943, to August 15, 1945. Spearheading our concentrated carrier-warfare in the most forward areas, the U.S.S. LEXINGTON and het air groups struck crushing blows toward annihilating Japanese fighting power; they provided air cover for our amphibious force; they fiercely countered the enemy’s aerial attacks and destroyed his planes; and they inflicted terrific losses on the Japanese in Fleet and merchant marine units sunk or damaged. Daring and dependable in combat, the LEXINGTON with her gallant officers and men rendered loyal service in achieving the ultimate defeat of the Japanese Empire.”

Details:
Received for action from the U.S.S. Lexington (CV-16) at Tarawa (September 18th, 1943), Wake (October 5-6th, 1943), Palau, Hollandia and Truk (March 18th - April 30th, 1944), Marianas (June 11th - July 5th, 1944) and Gilbert Islands (November 19th, - December 5th, 1945).