The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Donald Alma McPhie (NSN: 0-290502), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scout Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron THIRTEEN (VB-13), attached to the U.S.S. FRANKLIN (CV-13), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Sibuyan Sea during the Air Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. In the face of continuous and intense anti-aircraft fire and enemy air opposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, McPhie pressed home a determined dive bombing attack on a hostile aircraft carrier. With his plane badly damaged by a burst of hostile fire in the execution of his dive, he continued his same daring tactics and, accurately releasing his bomb load at perilously low altitude, scored a direct hit on the enemy aircraft carrier which contributed to her sinking. By his superb flying ability, indomitable fighting spirit and cool courage, maintained at great personal risk, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, McPhie contributed immeasurably to the extensive and costly damage inflicted on the Japanese fleet in this vital war area. His conduct throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.