The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Joseph William Callahan (NSN: 0-60329), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of this profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. RALPH TALBOT (DD-390), during action against enemy Japanese forces on Rendova Island and during subsequent operations incident to the occupation of the New Georgia Islands from 30 June to 13 July 1943. During the assault on Rendova, Commander Callahan directed his ship in providing cover for transports engaged in landing troops despite attacks by enemy torpedo and dive bombers and the threat of enemy submarines and fire from shore batteries. In the restricted waters of the area, he engaged in hazardous operations involving the landing of reinforcements and participated in two effective bombardments of Munda Point. In the second battle of Kula Gulf, he fought his ship aggressively, contributing materially to the destruction of four and probably six Japanese vessels. When one of our ships was severely damaged by an enemy torpedo during this engagement, he pulled alongside the stricken vessel, took her in tow and removed personnel. His expert ship handling, courage and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Commander Callahan and the United States Naval Service.