The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander George Harold Miller, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession on board the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. HOUSTON (CL-81), in operations against the enemy off Formosa when the HOUSTON fought off enemy aircraft torpedo attacks on the nights of 12, 13 and 14 October 1944, shooting down seven enemy aircraft, and on the 14th when a torpedo hit which resulted in the flooding of both engine rooms, both fire rooms, and several other compartments. As the ship’s damage control officer he made several hazardous inspections of damaged compartments on the lower decks, at a time when the ship was without light and power, listed 16 degrees, rolling the main deck under, and in a condition which indicated it would not remain afloat. In the face of these grave possibilities he quickly and successfully instituted measures to retain what stability and buoyancy were left. When, on 16 October, with the ship in tow, another aerial torpedo attack was received, another enemy aircraft destroyed, and another torpedo hit sustained, he quickly and courageously led the damage control parties in the localizing of the additional damage and the fighting of a dangerous gasoline fire, succeeding at length in both. His complete knowledge of his duties, his courage, his strong leadership and tireless efforts were primary factors in keeping the ship afloat and were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.