The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Captain Robert Hall Smith (NSN: 0-57755), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander, Destroyer Squadron TWENTY-TWO, during Naval Combat action on 27 and 29 November 1944, in the Camotes Sea. Captain Smith led the first and second destroyer units to enter the Camotes Sea, then under complete Japanese domination both by sea and by air, and in use for reinforcing the Japanese forces on Leyte. He forced the entrance through narrow and confined waters, under constant attack from the air and under constant threat of damage from mines. Completing the search of the sea during which he succeeded in destroying a large enemy submarine and, before withdrawing, inflicting damage to enemy shore installations by bombardment of designated areas. He withdrew from action without damage to his forces despite constant attacks by air and the narrow waters through which he was passing. By his successful conduct of these operations in the face of determined enemy opposition he contributed materially to the successful conclusion of the operation in hand and the war in the Pacific. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service, reflecting great credit upon Captain Smith and his gallant force.