The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Ensign Robert Francis Voltz, United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Composite Squadron EIGHTY-ONE (VT-81), attached to the U.S.S. NATOMA BAY (CVE-62, while engaging strong enemy surface forces in the Battle of Samar Island off the east coast of the Philippine Islands, on 25 October 1944. Ensign Voltz made an unsupported torpedo attack against Japanese capital ships, scoring a torpedo hit on an enemy heavy cruiser. His attack was made through the most intense anti-aircraft fire, and was pressed home to close range, heedless of personal danger. His plane was hit by anti-aircraft fire on his retirement, causing a large hole in the right wing. He skillfully flew his damaged plane back to his carrier where he landed aboard safely. His attack, coolly and courageously executed, is considered to have produced damage to the enemy cruiser which contributed directly to its sinking. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.