The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Boatswain’s Mate First Class Homer W. Truax, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty during the bombing and loss of the U.S.S. PANAY (PR-5), when that vessel was attacked by Japanese airplanes during patrol in the Yangtze River, China, on 12 December 1937. While still under bombardment by hostile planes, Boatswain’s Mate First Class Truax displayed initiative and coolness under fire by throwing overboard all gasoline, thereby preventing danger of explosion or serious fire. He then assisted in carrying the seriously wounded from the ship and transporting them overland for six miles to a hospital. The conduct of Boatswain’s Mate First Class Truax throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.