The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Arthur Elmer Krapf, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. JACK (SS-259), on the FIFTH War Patrol of that submarine in the Japanese controlled waters off the West Coast of Luzon and in the vicinity of Manila, from 4 June 1944 to 14 July 1944. Despite enemy anti-submarine measures and countermeasures, Commander Krapf skillfully and courageously carried out aggressive attacks on two heavily escorted enemy convoys, succeeded in sinking a large tanker and three freighters totaling approximately 25,000 tons and in damaging an additional three freighters totaling 12,000 tons. He displayed excellent tactical judgment in planning attacks and taking full advantage of the conditions of complete darkness and storm, added to the confusion of the enemy forces. By his well-executed evasion tactics, he was able to preserve his ship and all personnel aboard from injury and to return them safe to port. His professional skill, indomitable fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty reflect great credit upon Commander Krapf and the United States Naval Service.