The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander Allan Shannon Farquhar, United States Navy, for distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. STERETT operating in the War Zone and protecting vitally important convoys of troop and cargo ships through the area of submarine activity. Also for resolute and skilful service in rescuing the passengers and crew of the Japanese steamer Hirano Maru on 4 October 1918, and for prompt and efficient action in contacts with enemy submarines on 31 May 1918 and 1 June 1918.