The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Rear Admiral [then Captain] Austin Kelvin Doyle, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. HORNET (CV-12), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Western Pacific War Area, from 10 February to 19 May 1945. A bold and inspiring leader, Rear Admiral Doyle directed his ship and attached air group in a series of aggressive operations against the enemy in which 297 hostile planes were shot down and destroyed, important units of the Japanese Fleet damaged, and shore installations and enemy shipping damaged or destroyed. Although the HORNET was subjected to numerous air attacks during this period, he skillfully maneuvered to bring all guns to bear and repulse the enemy planes, of which several were shot down by his ship’s anti-aircraft batteries. By his outstanding professional skill, Rear Admiral Doyle maintained the fighting strength of his ship at a peak of efficiency, and his gallant fighting spirit was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.