The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Howard Gilmore Boren, Jr. (NSN: 0-278525), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron FIFTY-ONE (VT-51), attached to the U.S.S. SAN JACINTO (CVL-30), during the attacks by United States Naval Forces against a large Japanese Task Force of surface ships in the vicinity of the Philippine Islands on 25 October 1944. During his final approach to launch his torpedo on an enemy carrier, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Boren received a direct hit from intense enemy anti-aircraft fire which entirely removed his plane’s port stabilizer and elevator and riddled its rudder and fin. This hit momentarily caused loss of control of his plane, but by unusual calmness and skill he regained control of his plane, made a 360 degree turn within the enemy screen and launched his attack on an enemy destroyer, obtaining a hit and severely damaging and probably sinking it. By continued good judgment, determination and great skill he successfully brought his plane back safely to base. His courage and skill were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.