Captain
HOWARD LEYLAND YOUNG
U.S. Navy
Commanding Officer
USS OMMANEY BAY (CVE 79)

NAVY CROSS

THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY
Washington

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

HOWARD LEYLAND YOUNG, CAPTAIN
UNITED STATES NAVY

for service as set forth in the following
CITATION:

                "For extraordinary heroism in action against major ships of the Japanese Fleet in the Battle off Samar, October 25, 1944.  Captain Young conducted his command gallantly and with courageous initiative, inspiring his officers and men and the Ommaney Bay air personnel throughout the critical and fiercely fought Battle for Leyte Gulf against a powerful force of Japanese battleships, cruisers and destroyers.  His superb seamanship and indomitable fighting spirit in the face of overwhelming odds were important factors in turning potential defeat into a decisive victory over the Central Japanese Force.  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