The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander Douglas Lee L. Cordiner (NSN: 0-73639), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. DASHIELL (DD-659), a Unit to a Radar Picket Group, in action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Okinawa, on 14 April 1945. When the group of which his ship was a member was subjected to a heavy air attack by approximately twenty enemy planes, Commander Cordiner coolly carried out defensive maneuvers and directed his anti-aircraft batteries in delivering effective fire which accounted for the destruction of four of the hostile aircraft. Although three of the planes crashed close aboard and a near miss by a bomb deprived his ship of power, he accomplished prompt repairs, speedily regained power and steadfastly fought his ship until the attack was dispersed. His gallant fighting spirit, courage and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.