Rear Admiral
CLIFTON ALBERT FREDERICK SPRAGUE
Commander Task Unit 77.4.3
NAVY CROSS
THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY
Washington
The President of the United States takes pride in
Presenting the NAVY CROSS to
CLIFTON ALBERT FREDERICK SPRAGUE, REAR ADMIRAL
UNITED STATES NAVY
for service as set forth in the following
CITATION:
"The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Rear Admiral Clifton Albert F. Sprague, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander, Task Unit SEVENTY-SEVEN POINT FOUR POINT THREE (TU-77.4.3), consisting of six escort carriers and aboard the U.S.S. FANSHAW BAY (CVE-70), in action against the enemy from 18 through 25 October 1944. Rear Admiral Sprague furnished air support to amphibious attack groups landing troops on the shores of Leyte Gulf, Philippine Islands. On 25 October 1944, this Task Unit was taken under fire by a strong enemy force consisting of battleships, cruisers, and destroyers, and was under air attack from Japanese suicide dive bombers. In the face of overwhelming enemy fire power and speed he repeatedly launched aircraft against the enemy Fleet, directed torpedo attacks by the screen, and so skillfully maneuvered his force that only two of his carriers were lost. His stubborn defense and damage inflicted on the enemy ships by ships and aircraft of his command was a major factor contributing to the Japanese decision to retire from the Battle of Samar Island. Admiral Sprague's personal courage and determination in the face of overwhelming enemy surface gunfire and air attack were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."
For the President,
/s/ James Forrestal
Secretary of the Navy