The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Joseph Gilbert Hjelstrom, United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Bombing Fighting Squadron EIGHTY-FIVE (VBF-85), attached to the U.S.S. SHANGRI-LA (CV-38), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Kure Harbor, Honshu, Japan, on 28 July 1945. Courageously participating in a vital strike against an enemy Task force, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Hjelstrom pressed home a daring and vigorous dive-bombing attack in the face of shattering fire from the main batteries of heavy fleet units and an intense barrage of anti-aircraft fire of all calibers and, accurately releasing a 1,000-pound bomb at perilously low altitude, scored a direct hit on an enemy battleship, inflicting severe damage on the vessel. His superb airmanship, indomitable fighting spirit and heroic devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Hjelstrom and the United States Naval Service.