M. Heard Hearon, U.S. Navy

The Secretary of the Navy, Washington takes pleasure in commending the United States Ship WAKE ISLAND and her attached Air Squadrons participating in the following operations:

VC-58, ASW - Atlantic, June 15 to August 15, 1944;
VCC-l, Luzon Operation, January 1 to 18, 1945;
VCC-l, Iwo Jima Operation, February 15 to March 14, 1945;
VCC-l, Okinawa Gunto Operation, March 24 to April 6, 1945;
VCC-l, Okinawa Gunto Operation, April 24 to June 21, 1945;

For service as follows:

"For outstanding heroism in action against enemy forces in the air, ashore and afloat. After completing a suc¬cessful Anti-Submarine cruise against German Atlantic Raiders in which the U-543 was sunk, the U .5.5. WAKE ISLAND and her attached air squadrons joined our Escort Carrier Force to participate in the three final invasion operations which led to the defeat of the Japanese Empire. The WAKE ISLAND sent out her planes repeatedly in spotting and strike missions to place our Naval gunfire on suitable targets and to destroy hostile emplacements, aircraft and equipment. Her Fighter Directors completed interception of enemy aerial forces threatening the Task Force, and the concentrated fire from her own antiaircraft batteries destroyed or fought off attacking planes. By her own readiness for combat and the gallant fighting spirit of her courageous officers and men, the WAKE ISLAND achieved a notable record of service and success in action, in keeping with the highest traditions of the United states Naval Service."

All personnel attached to and serving on board the U.S.S. WAKE ISLAND and her embarked air squadrons as noted during one or more of the designated periods are hereby authorized to wear the NAVY UNIT COMMENDATION Ribbon.

/s/ John L. Sullivan JOHN L. SULLIVAN Secretary of the Navy