The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Captain Herbert Watson Taylor, Jr. (NSN: 0-57193), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Light Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. COWPENS (CVL-25), the Flagship of the Task Group, during sustained operations against the enemy from 29 August to 30 October 1944. During 13 – 14 October 1944, when close to Japanese shores and under heavy enemy aerial attack, Captain Taylor conducted operations on board his ship in such an outstanding manner that its full fighting strength was brought to bear, resulting in a number of enemy aircraft being shot down by anti-aircraft fire with no damage to his ship. During operations against the Japanese Fleet on 25 -26 October 1944, he again handled his ship in such an efficient manner that the full strength of the Air Group was brought to bear against the enemy resulting in heavy damage to and the sinking of capital ships of the Japanese Fleet. His courage and skill were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.