The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Harry C. Thomas, United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in action as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron SIXTEEN (VT-16), attached to the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), in action against the Japanese Fleet in the Mariana Islands, during the First Battle of the Philippine Sea, on 20 June 1944. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Thomas flew in an attack to the limit of endurance against the enemy main Fleet where he pressed home his attack through most intense anti-aircraft fire and fighter plane opposition, personally scoring two direct bomb hits on the stern of a large enemy aircraft carrier which eventually sank. Upon completion of this most successful attack he returned to his Task Group under most hazardous conditions and was obliged to make a night water landing. His mission was accomplished without loss of any personnel. His courage and skill above and beyond the call of duty were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.