The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Major Rivers Judson Morrell, Jr. (MCSN: 0-5553), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in aerial combat whiles a member of Marine Fighting Squadron TWO HUNDRED TWENTY-THREE (VMF-223), Marine Air Group TWENTY-THREE (MAG-23), FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing, against enemy Japanese forces in the Guadalcanal Area between 24 August 1942 and 5 September 1942. During this period Major Morrell, single-handed, attacked and shot down four enemy aircraft and, aided by another fighter pilot, a four-engined Japanese flying boat. On 5 September, after destroying a twin-engined bomber, he was seriously wounded but, despite his critical condition, coolly and skillfully landed his damaged plane at his base. His aggressive leadership and outstanding performance of duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.