The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander Jesse Grant Coward (NSN: 0-57509), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. STERRETT (DD-407), during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island on the night of 12 – 13 November, 1942. On this occasion the force to which Commander Coward was attached engaged at close quarters and defeated a superior enemy force, inflicting heavy damage upon them and preventing the accomplishment of their intended mission. His daring and determination contributed materially to the victory which prevented the enemy forces from accomplishing their purposes.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Captain Jesse Grant Coward (NSN: 0-57509), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander, Destroyer Squadron FIFTY-FOUR, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Surigao Strait during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands on the night of 24 – 25 October 1944. Although illuminated and subjected to enemy fire, Captain Coward brought his ships to within short range of heavy enemy vessels, launched a daring torpedo attack, which inflicted severe damage on the enemy, and retired without loss or injury. The successful attack contributed in large measure to eliminating an imminent and dangerous threat to our transports and other ships in Leyte Gulf. His high professional skill, forceful leadership, and gallant devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.