The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant [then Lieutenant, Junior Grade] James “R” Crenshaw, Jr., United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron ONE (VT-1), attached to the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-10), in action against major units of the Japanese Fleet during the First Battle of the Philippine Sea, on 20 June 1944. Participating in a bold strike against an enemy aircraft carrier, Lieutenant Crenshaw flew through intense anti-aircraft fire and strong fighter opposition and, with other members of his squadron made a brilliantly executed torpedo close-range attack which resulted in two direct hits on this vital enemy carrier. Although his plane was hit and seriously damaged by a heavy anti-aircraft shell, he skillfully returned to his Task Group and made a safe carrier landing after nightfall. Lieutenant Crenshaw’s superb airmanship and indomitable fighting spirit were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.