The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain John Francis Newman, Jr. (NSN: 0-60219), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commander Destroyer Squadron FOURTEEN in action against enemy Japanese forces during a supply mission to Ormoc Bay, Leyte, Philippine Islands, 11 – 12 December 1944. Efficiently carrying out his assigned mission, Captain Newman skillfully maneuvered his ships into positions to fight off an enemy aerial attack and, although one destroyer was crashed and sunk by a suicide plane during the ensuing action, directed rescue operations which held casualties to a minimum. By his leadership and courage under fire, he contributed materially to the success of this mission. His devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.