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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit with Combat “V” to Captain Ralph Clonts Alexander (NSN: 0-17101), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States in the line of his profession while in command of the U.S.S. RENO (CL-96) during the period 3 to 10 November 1944. Following the torpedoing of the U.S.S. RENOW in Latitude 13-50 N, Longitude 131-22 E, on the night of 3 November 1944, this officer by his skillful airmanship, determination, calm and inspiring leadership, and in the face of adverse weather conditions and the continued possibility of further attacks, succeeded in salvaging the returning to port his seriously damaged vessel. His untiring efforts and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Captain Alexander is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Captain

    Division:

    U.S.S. Reno (CL-96)

    Action Date:

    October 14 – 24, 1944
    Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 340 (July 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Captain Ralph Clonts Alexander (NSN: 0-17101), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Light Cruiser U.S.S. RENO (CL-96), in action with enemy forces from 14 to 24 October 1944. On 14 October 1944 during a heavy enemy torpedo plane attack on our forces he fought his ship so effectively that she shot down six torpedo planes notwithstanding damage done by an enemy aircraft on his vessel; and on 24 October while employing his ship in the rescue and salvage operations for an aircraft carrier he maintained his ship in a position where she greatly aided the damaged carrier in spite of intense heat and smoke an din the face of continued major explosions. During this same operation he maneuvered his ship so as to repel attacking enemy aircraft and destroyed at least two of these aircraft. During these two actions his calm determination and courage were a source of great inspiration to his officers and men and spurred them to great efforts in the face of gravest danger. His courage and skill were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.