The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Commander Leland Mothershead Burr (NSN: 0-128611), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as Staff Watch Officer on board the Transport Ship U.S.S. CALLAWAY (APA-35), Flagship of Transport Division TWENTY-SIX, when that vessel was struck by a Japanese plane off the Coast of Luzon, in the Philippine Islands, on 8 January 1945. At his post on the starboard wing of the bridge when the enemy craft exploded close by his station, starting raging fires and inflicting serious casualties on the ship’s company, Lieutenant Commander Burr unhesitatingly rushed forward although his clothing was aflame, to aid crewmen trapped in the 20-mm. clipping room abaft the bridge and, disregarding the searing pain of burns received in the initial blast, resolutely entered the twisted, blazing compartment where ready ammunition was exploding violently. Carrying one man to safety, he gallantly forced his way back through the blinding smoke and scorching flames for the second casualty and succeeded in removing him despite additional burns sustained in his struggle to extricate the unconscious man. Steadfastly refusing medical care, he staunchly continued his valiant efforts, fighting the spreading fires and rendering assistance wherever possible until ordered to sick bay by his Commanding Officer. Unwavering in his devotion to duty, he insisted on briefing his replacement in the details of the beachmaster’s responsibilities and lucidly discussed with the Attack Force Control Officer such problems as might arise during the coming assault against Luzon, ultimately lapsing into a coma from which he never recovered. Concerned only for the safety of his ship and her company, Lieutenant Commander Burr, by his indomitable determination and self-sacrificing conduct in the face of apparent disaster, served as an inspiring example to the officers and men with whom he served and his great personal courage throughout a critical period upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.