The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Commander (Retired) Charles Eugene Kirkpatrick, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism as Senior Officer of a Special Reconnaissance Detachment, during operations against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific War Area, from 11 July 1944 to 28 August 1944. Volunteering to participate in a mission to reconnoiter enemy-held islands and adjacent waters at great distances from friendly bases, Lieutenant Commander Kirkpatrick planned the operation and led the reconnaissance party to enemy-held beaches, obtaining vital information and contributing to our continued operation against the enemy. His courage and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Lieutenant Commander Kirkpatrick and the United States Naval Service.