The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Captain Gilbert Corwin Hoover, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander, Destroyer Task Force ELEVEN, United States Pacific Fleet, during the rescue of survivors from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON after the Battle of the Coral Sea, on 7 and 8 May 1942. In constant danger of subsequent attacks by enemy Japanese aircraft and at a time when the LEXINGTON was being shaken by violent explosions and gutted by raging fires, Captain Hoover directed his Flagship and other ships under his command to be placed alongside the stricken carrier for the removal of survivors. His courageous and inspiring leadership in a situation of grave peril contributed greatly to the reduction of personnel casualties and to the rescue of many survivors who might otherwise have perished. The conduct of Captain Hoover throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

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 Gilbert Corwin Hoover, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Light Cruiser U.S.S. HELENA (CL-50), during the night action against an enemy Japanese force of cruisers and destroyers off Savo Island during the Battle of Cape Esperance on 11 – 12 October 1942. Maintaining the security of the rear in the battle column, Captain Hoover fought his ship valiantly despite the difficulties of night combat and succeeded in sinking a Japanese destroyer on the disengaged side. The determined and effective gunfire of the HELENA under his skillful command was largely responsible for holding to a minimum the damage to our destroyers in the rear. Captain Hoover’s inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Navy Cross to Captain Gilbert Corwin Hoover, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Light Cruiser U.S.S. HELENA (CL-50), 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 Captain Hoover was attached engaged at close quarters and defeated a superior enemy force. His daring and determination contributed materially to the victory which prevented the enemy from accomplishing their purpose and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.