The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Motor Machinist’s Mate First Class Charles D. Day, United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action against the enemy while serving as a Member of the crew of Motor Torpedo Boat FOUR HUNDRED EIGHTY-NINE (PT-489), in action against the enemy on 16 September 1944. Motor Machinist’s Mate First Class Day volunteered to accompany two boats to assist in the rescue of a Navy fighter pilot shot down in Wasile Bay, Halmahera Island. A long narrow approach closely guarded by enemy guns and reportedly mined added to the danger. After attempts at rescue by airplane had been turned back by anti-aircraft fire, on the third attempt his boat succeeded in gaining entrance and located the pilot. When it became apparent that the flier was too severely injured to help himself, Day unhesitatingly dived overboard and got the wounded flier aboard. His boats were under intense fire for two and one-half hours. His actions contributed to the success of one of the most dangerous and thrilling rescues in the Southwest Pacific area. His conduct was in accordance with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.