Captain
JOHN PERRY WHITNEY
U.S. Navy
Commanding Officer
USS KITKUN BAY (CVE 71)

NAVY CROSS

THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY
Washington

The President of the United States takes pride in
Presenting the NAVY CROSS to

JOHN PERRY WHITNEY, CAPTAIN
UNITED STATES NAVY

for service as set forth in the following
CITATION:

                "For extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Escort Carrier U.S.S. KITKUN BAY (CVE-71), 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.  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