The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Commander Lloyd Wilber Van Antwerp (NSN: 0-77725), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane and leader of a division of eight carrier-based torpedo planes of Torpedo Squadron EIGHTEEN (VT-18), attached to the U.S.S. INTREPID (CV-11), in a torpedo attack on a large enemy carrier Task Force in the Philippine Sea, during the Battle for Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. Against intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire, Lieutenant Commander Van Antwerp obtained one of three hits of a three-plane section drop on an enemy carrier, resulting in severely crippling damage. His leadership and timing of attack was largely responsible for all aircraft returning safely to base, although his own plane was afire from enemy flak during the entire course home. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.