The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander Frederick Moosbrugger, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander, Destroyer Division TWELVE (DesDiv 12), during a surface engagement with enemy Japanese forces at Vella Gulf, Solomon Islands, on the night of 6 – 7 August 1943. Conducting a perfectly coordinated attack on Japanese forces, Commander Moosbrugger skillfully disposed the units of his destroyer division for maximum fire power and efficiency, which resulted in the annihilation of the entire hostile force of one cruiser and three destroyers. He brought his ships through the engagement without loss or damage. Commander Moosbrugger’s inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.