Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Awarded on:

February 26th, 1943

"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Chief of Staff to the Task Force Commander during a series of highly successful offensive missions carried out by that force, namely: the attack on the Marshall and Gilbert Islands, other subsequent and similar operations in the Central Pacific, and in the Battle of Midway, covering the period from 6 December 1941 to 14 June 1942. During this period the force repeatedly steamed for protracted periods in enemy waters and in close proximity to enemy territory and bases under constant threat of attack by air and submarine. During the Marshalls attack the force was engaged with enemy heavy bombers whose attacks resulted in minor damage only, in large part due to the skill, courage, and determination of Captain Browning under fire. In the other actions which were successful without exception and which inflicted heavy damage on enemy installations and shipping, Captain Browning contributed materially to that success and to bringing the force through unscathed. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

Commander South Pacific Force & Area: Serial 652

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Unit:

Pacific Fleet, U.S. Navy

"For exceptionally meritorious service in a duty of great responsibility in that through his excellent and audacious planning and his superb assistance, while serving in the capacity of Chief of Staff to a Task Force Commander, he contributed, to an ultimate degree, to the success of a series of gallant missions carried out by that force, namely: The attack on the Marshall and Gilbert Islands, the raids on Wake and Marcus Islands, and other subsequent similar operations in the Central Pacific. Also, by his expert planning and brilliant execution he was largely responsible for the rout of the enemy in the Battle of Midway. Later, while serving in a similar capacity with the Commander South Pacific Area and South Pacific Force, by his unfaltering courage and timely advice in this position of great responsibility he was, to a marked degree, instrumental in the successful culmination of many operations in the South Pacific. His conduct and example in operation and administration have been in accordance with the best traditions of the service and many victories in the Pacific can be directly attributable to his exceptional performance of duty."