Commander
AMOS TOWNSEND HATHAWAY
U.S. Navy
Commanding Officer
USS HEERMANN (DD 532)
NAVY CROSS
THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY
Washington
The President of the United States takes pride in
Presenting the NAVY CROSS to
AMOS TOWNSEND HATHAWAY, COMMANDER
UNITED STATES NAVY
for service as set forth in the following
CITATION:
"The Navy Cross is presented to Amos Townsend Hathaway, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. HEERMANN (DD-532), in a surface engagement with a large task force of the Japanese Fleet near the Island of Samar in Philippine waters during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States. By his own courage and gallant determination, he gave encouragement to his officers and men during this crucial ordeal. His heroic actions have brought great distinction upon himself and his conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States."
For the President,
/s/ James Forrestal
Secretary of the Navy