The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Captain Robert Nisbet Hunter, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Escort Carrier U.S.S. KADASHAN BAY (CVE-76), operating as a Unit of three Groups of Escort Aircraft Carriers in action against major ships of the Japanese Fleet during the Battle off Samar, on 25 October 1944. An aggressive and determined leader, Captain Hunter courageously directed the activities of his ship and air department during the initial battle for Leyte Gulf and, by inspiring his officers and men to heroic efforts in the face of an attack by an overwhelming enemy Task Force of battleships, cruisers and destroyers, contributed materially to the infliction of severe damage on the Japanese Fleet. Through his gallant fighting spirit and expert seamanship, he was instrumental in turning potential defeat into a decisive victory, and his devotion to duty reflects the highest credit upon Captain Hunter and the United States Naval Service.