The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Commander Philip Harold Ross (NSN: 0-61247), United States Navy, for heroic and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. HALIBUT (SS-232), on the highly successful and aggressive THIRD War Patrol of that submarine from November 1943 to January 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the Pacific War Area. With courage, skill, and determination Lieutenant Commander Ross pressed home his attacks against enemy shipping close to the enemy shore which resulted in the sinking of 30,280 tons and damaging 8,000 tons of enemy shipping. His calm courage and fearless leadership during a depth charge attack, the aftermath of a successful attack on an enemy ship, served as an inspiration in maintaining the high morale of the crews. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Ross brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

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 Captain [then Lieutenant Commander] Philip Harold Ross (NSN: 0-61247), United States Navy, for heroic and distinguished service in the line of his profession in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. HALIBUT (SS-232), on a War Patrol of that submarine in enemy controlled waters of the Pacific War Area in 1944. Despite determined enemy opposition Captain Ross succeeded in sinking two ships and seriously damaging three others. In all actions his skill in maneuvering his boat brought her through all enemy counter attacks with minor material damage. His leadership and skill throughout the patrol were an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.