- Period:
- Second World War (1939-1945)
- Rank:
- Vice Admiral
- Unit:
- Fast Carrier Task Forces, Pacific Fleet, U.S. Navy
"For exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States. As Commander Fast Carrier Task Forces, Pacific, he led his forces in daring and well coordinated attacks on Japanese bases in the Central and Western Pacific. On 29 - 30 March and 1 April 1944, he led his task force deep into waters previously controlled by the enemy, and caused extensive damage to enemy forces and installations at Palau, Yap and Woleai. On 20 and 21 April 1944, his force operated in direct support of the amphibious landing at Hollandia, New Guinea, and effectively maintained control of the air in the area of operations. On 29 - 30 April and 1 May 1944, his forces executed a bold attack on Truk, Satawan and Ponape, causing extensive damage to those bases. During the operation to capture the Marianas Islands, from 11 June to 27 August 1944, forces under his command prepared the way for the invasion forces by bombing and strafing the attack force objectives in the Marianas Islands and other enemy bases within supporting distance thereof. When the landing on Saipan, still in its early stages, was threatened by a sortie of Japanese Fleet, Vice Admiral Mitscher with bold courage and determination led Task Force 58 to a brilliant victory in the Battle of the Philippine Sea. His immediate decision to attack when the enemy fleet was sighted at maximum range on the afternoon of 20 June and the speed with which his attack units were in the air and en route to the objective were vital factors in the damaging effectiveness of the strike which followed. Subsequent raids on enemy bases in the Marianas and on Palau, Uap, Ulithi and the Bonin and Volcano Islands prevented effective interference by enemy forces with our operations in the Marianas, and thus contributed directly to the capture of Saipan, Guam, Tinian and the extension westward of United States control in the Central Pacific. His daring, aggressiveness and courageous leadership, his determination and personal courage throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."
This award was obtained in the form of a second Gold Star to be attached on the ribbon of the first award.