The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander Stanhope Cotton Ring, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane and Group Commander of the HORNET Air Group, attached to the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-8), during the Battle of Midway on 6 June 1942. Commander Ring led his carrier air group against enemy cruisers and destroyers, coolly and methodically, in the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire. Without regard for his own safety, he drove home a successful attack on the enemy carriers. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.