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 Commander Frank Chase Perry (NSN: 0-82684), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron NINETEEN (VT-19) and as the Leader of a deck-load strike of carrier-based torpedo aircraft, embarked from the LEXINGTON (CV-16), and deployed over Manila Bay. On 5 November 1944, Lieutenant Commander Perry skillfully and courageously maneuvered this flight in a torpedo attack against a capital ship of the Japanese Fleet. Despite intense anti-aircraft fire, he led his division to close range and obtained a direct torpedo hit for himself and all members of his division on this Japanese heavy cruiser, thereby causing its destruction. His skill, courage, and disregard for his own personal safety were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Commander Frank Chase Perry (NSN: 0-82684), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane and Squadron Commander in Torpedo Squadron NINETEEN (VT-19) attached to the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), while assigned to strike major Japanese Fleet Units on 25 October 1944, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, in the Philippine Islands. Gallantly leading four torpedo aircraft in an aggressive strike against a hostile battleship. Lieutenant Commander Perry boldly plunged through the enemy’s intense anti-aircraft fire and expertly directed a determined attack upon the vessel without diversionary aerial support. Personally accounting for one hit during this fiercely contested action, Lieutenant Commander Perry contributed to the neutralization of the ship, and his brilliant airmanship, indomitable courage and inspiring leadership, were major factors in the success of his squadron in the infliction of extensive damage on the Japanese during this battle. His dauntless fighting spirit and devotion to duty throughout this perilous operation reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.