Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Melvin Lee Tegge (NSN: 0-116439), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight during World War II. Subjected to illumination and close-range anti-aircraft fire, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Tegge completed two hazardous flights which aided in the destruction of two hostile vessels in Kahili and Faisi Harbors. Despite interception by hostile planes, he attacked and contributed to the sinking of five Japanese destroyers, three cargo vessels and the damaging of one light cruiser and two destroyers.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    Torpedo Squadron 11 (VT-11)

    Division:

    U.S.S. Hornet (CV-12)

    Action Date:

    October 25, 1944
    Commander 2d Carrier Task Force: Serial 0576 (December 22, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Melvin Lee Tegge (NSN: 0-116439), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron ELEVEN (VT-11), attached to the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-12), assigned to attack enemy surface forces in the vicinity of the Philippine Islands, during the Battle for Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. In the face of intense, accurate anti-aircraft fire Lieutenant Tegge pressed home his attack and scored two direct hits on an enemy battleship. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.