The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Chief Specialist John Gerald Donnell, United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while in charge of a Scout Boat from the U.S.S. THOMAS JEFFERSON during the assault on and occupation of French Morocco from November 8 to 11, 1942. Preceding the assault on Fedala on 8 November Donnell skillfully maneuvered his craft in complete darkness from the transport area six miles off the coast toward the landing beach designated for the assault battalion of the Thomas Jefferson. Despite a dangerous rock reef at the end of the beach and enemy batteries menacing the shore, he located his position and by prescribed signals guided incoming boat waves of troops. Although under fire from hostile forces, Donnell gallantly maintained his station until his mission was accomplished, thereby contributing to the successful landing of our troops. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.