The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander Dwight Merle Agnew (NSN: 0-60295), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. TREVER (DD-339), an escort ship, during operations in the Solomon Islands area. While engaged in these operations, Commander Agnew’s ship was subjected to repeated air attacks. On 7, 8 and 9 August 1942, Commander Agnew’s ship participated in the initial attack on Guadalcanal as a screening vessel for the transports and, while under fire, as a fire support and minesweeping vessel. With other vessels, his ship on numerous occasions acted as a screening and minesweeping vessel during the landing of supplies and reinforcements. From 23 to 25 October 1942, Commander Agnew, as Commander of a Task Unit again entered Solomon Island waters, carrying vitally needed material which was successfully unloaded at Tulagi on 25 October. While retiring his ships were attacked by a force of three Japanese destroyers. During the ensuing battle, he fought his ships with such brilliant success, that no considerable damage or loss of personnel resulted, while his vessels inflicted several hits on one enemy destroyer, setting it on fire. His skillful and seamanlike handling of his ships, and his determination and courage when opposed by a superior force, permitted the safe withdrawal of the ships under his command, after completion of their mission. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Naval Service.