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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Frederick William Tracey (NSN: 0-106261), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron EIGHTEEN (VF-18), attached to the U.S.S. INTREPID (CV-11), in operations against the enemy in Formosa on 12 October 1944. As pilot of a carrier-based fighter plane escorting a flight of our torpedo and bomber planes he shot down three enemy aircraft, probably shot down one and damaged another plane from an intercepting enemy formation numerically superior to our escorting fighter by five-to-one, thereby materially assisting in effecting the escorted planes’ safe return from their mission. His courage and skill were inspiring and were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    Fighting Squadron 18 (VF-18)

    Division:

    U.S.S. Intrepid (CV-11)

    Action Date:

    October 24 – 26, 1944
    Commander 2d Carrier Task Force Pacific: Serial 01410 (June 23, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Frederick William Tracey (NSN: 0-106261), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron EIGHTEEN (VF-18), attached to the U.S.S. INTREPID (CV-11), during the crucial battles with powerful formations of the Japanese fleet in waters surrounding the Philippine Islands, from 24 to 26 October 1944. As pilot of a carrier-based fighter bomber, Lieutenant Tracy strafed and bombed major enemy warships on three separate occasions. During these attacks he scored a direct bomb hit on a large enemy carrier despite continuous intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire. His determined efforts materially contributed to the defeat and routing of an enemy battleship Task Force, a carrier Task Force and the destruction of numerous major elements in the enemy’s fleet. His outstanding courage, skillful determination and disregard for his own personal safety were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.