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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant [then Lieutenant, Junior Grade] Frank Alstrup Fox, United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of a Torpedo Bombing Plane in Torpedo Bombing Squadron NINETEEN, attached to the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), in action against a major unit of the enemy Japanese Fleet in Manila Bay, Luzon, Philippine Islands, 5 November 1944. Courageous in the face of intense anti-aircraft fire, Lieutenant Fox pressed home a determined torpedo attack to a close range and, despite intense anti-aircraft fire, succeeded in leaving the heavy cruiser dead in the water and contributed materially to its break-up and destruction. His airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant, Junior Grade

    Batallion:

    Torpedo Squadron 19 (VT-19)

    Division:

    U.S.S. Lexington (CV-16)

    Action Date:

    October 25, 1944

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Frank Alstrup Fox, United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron NINETEEN (VT-19) attached to the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), while assigned to strike major Japanese Fleet Units on 25 October 1944, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, in the Philippine Islands. Participating in a vigorous strike against major units of the Japanese Fleet, including aircraft carriers, battleships, cruisers and destroyers, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Fox boldly plunged through continuous, intense anti-aircraft fire to carry out his attack and, expertly maneuvering to release his torpedo at close range, succeeded in scoring a direct hit on an enemy aircraft carrier, which contributed materially to the sinking of the vessel. By his superb airmanship, daring combat tactics and courage maintained in the face of tremendous opposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Fox contributed materially to the infliction of extensive damage and destruction on the Japanese Fleet in this decisive battle. His dauntless fighting spirit and unswerving devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.