The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Isadore M. Kovar, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while Commanding Motor Torpedo Boat ONE HUNDRED THIRTY-SEVEN (PT-137), during action against enemy Japanese forces off Panaon Island, Philippine Islands, during the Battle of Surigao Strait, the night of 24 – 25 October 1944. On patrol at Binit Point at the entrance to Surigao Strait when a strong Task Force of the Japanese Fleet entered the Strait, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Kovar boldly approached the enemy destroyer “Abukuma,” sighted visually and proceeding southward at slow speed. Closing the range to 700 yards, he launched a skillful torpedo attack and scored a hit which left the target seriously crippled and an easy prey for our air forces to sink on the following day. Immediately illuminated by hostile star shells, Lieutenant Kovar commenced evasive withdrawal action and, by his expert conning of the boat and his cool maneuvering in the face of grave danger, enabled the PT-137 to escape. The exceptional bravery, aggressive leadership, and outstanding devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Kovar were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.