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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Captain Thomas Leigh Gatch, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Battleship U.S.S. SOUTH DAKOTA (BB-57), during action of his Task Force against enemy Japanese carrier-based planes north of the Santa Cruz Islands on 26 October 1942. While the Task force as being subjected to intensely heavy and sustained enemy aerial attack, Captain Gatch boldly closed the SOUTH DAKOTA to furnish determined and effective defense of the carrier. In this position, he fought the SOUTH DAKOTA valiantly until an enemy bomb wounded him so seriously he was forced to turn over his command. His courage, outstanding seamanship and gallant devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Captain

    Division:

    U.S.S. South Dakota (BB-57)

    Action Date:

    November 14 – 15, 1942
    Commander Southern Pacific Forces: Serial 0739 (May 2, 1943) & Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 318 (September 1943)

    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 Captain Thomas Leigh Gatch, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Battleship U.S.S. SOUTH DAKOTA (BB-57), during an engagement with Japanese naval forces off Savo Island on the night of 14 – 15 November 1942. Although partially disabled and suffering acute pain from a previous wound, Captain Gatch, with bold determination and courageous zeal, gallantly fought his ship through a concentrated bombardment of hostile fire. His calm coolness in the face of great danger and inspiring leadership contributed to the high combat efficiency which enabled the SOUTH DAKOTA to sink at least one Japanese cruiser and to assist in the destruction and damage of other enemy vessels. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.