Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant

Unit:

Torpedo Squadron 16 (VT-16), U.S.S. Randolph (CV-15) (Torpedo Squadron 16 (VT-16), U.S.S. Randolph (CV-15))

Awarded on:

September 17th, 1947

Synopsis:
"For extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron SIXTEEN (VT-16), attached to the U.S.S. RANDOLPH (CV-15), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Inland Sea, on 24 July 1945. Pressing home an aggressive attack against a hostile battleship-carrier in the Kure Naval Base, Lieutenant Minarik succeeded in scoring a direct hit and near misses despite intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire, thereby contributing materially to the destruction of the hostile vessel. His skillful airmanship and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

General Orders: Commander 2d Carrier Task Force: Serial 01849 (September 17, 1947).