The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Captain Grayson Birch Carter, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander, LST Flotilla FIVE during amphibious landing operations at Vella Lavella in the Solomon Islands during August 1943. Captain Carter so skillfully handled and directed his forces that they suffered only minor damage and few casualties. He improvised and carried out detailed measures to increase defensive-offensive measures in the landing of both personnel and material. Captain Carter’s inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.