The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Commander Aaron Frederick Beyer, Jr. (NSN: 0-71273), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer Escort U.S.S. RAYMOND (DE-341), in a surface engagement with a large task force of the Japanese Fleet near the Island of Samar in Philippine waters during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. With outstanding skill, Lieutenant Commander Beyer maneuvered his little ship under intense fire from enemy heavy forces vastly superior in numbers, armament and armor. By his own courage and gallant determination, he gave encouragement to his officers and men during this crucial ordeal. His heroic actions have brought great distinction upon himself and his conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.