The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Chief Machinist’s Mate Aucie McDaniel, United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in action as Chief Machinist’s Mate in charge of the forward engine room, U.S.S. KEARNY (DD-432), when that vessel was torpedoed in the Atlantic on 17 October 1941. His knowledge, leadership, quick action, under most difficult circumstances in making the engine room safe contributed greatly to enable the vessel to make port. The force of the explosion deflected the forward engine bulkhead; through his guidance shores were quickly installed and the engine room made safe. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.