The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Norman Wesley Mollard, Jr., United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron FORTY-FIVE (VF-45), attached to the U.S.S. SAN JACINTO (CVL-30), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, on 16 April 1945. Flying as wing man in a division of four planes over enemy-controlled territory, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Mollard shot down one hostile fighter plane, then proceeded along to the assistance of a friendly plane which, fighting off a concerted attack by two Japanese aircraft, had exhausted it ammunition. Maneuvering skillfully, he succeeded in shooting down the two aggressor planes, after which he escorted the defenseless aircraft to its base. On his return flight to rejoin his division, he intercepted several enemy dive bombers who were attacking our ships and, with only one gun remaining in operation, braved enemy anti-aircraft fire to destroy another Japanese plane for a total of four enemy planes destroyed during this mission. By his inspiring leadership and devotion to the fulfillment of each hazardous assignment, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Mollard contributed materially to the success of his squadron’s operations. His conduct was at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.