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Navy Federal Credit Union

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 Lieutenant Paul Algodte Holmberg, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron THREE (VB-3), attached to the U.S.S. SARATOGA (CV-3), during actions against a Japanese naval task force in the Solomon Islands area on 24 August 1942. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, Lieutenant Holmberg launched a determined and vigorous attack against an enemy aircraft carrier, contributing effectively to the probable destruction of that vessel. His aggressive action, maintained in the face of wither anti-aircraft fire and violent fighter opposition, was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant, Junior Grade

    Batallion:

    Bombing Squadron 3 (VB-3)

    Division:

    U.S.S. Yorktown (CV-5)

    Action Date:

    June 4 – 6, 1942

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Paul Algodte Holmberg, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron THREE (VB-3), attached to the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), during the “Air Battle of Midway,” against enemy Japanese forces on 4 – 6 June 1942. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Holmberg took part in dive-bombing attacks against Japanese naval forces in the Battle of Midway. Disregarding the extreme danger from intense anti-aircraft fire and enemy fighter opposition, he, vigorously and with heroic determination, pressed home his attacks against the Japanese invasion fleet thereby contributing in great measure to the glorious and decisive victory of our forces. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.