The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the PRESIDENTIAL UNIT CITATION to the

CITATION:

“For heroic service while attached to an Amphibious Force operating against enemy Japanese forces in the waters off Okinawa Shima during the assault and capture of that island, from March 23 to June 24, 1945. In action almost continuously during this period of intensive hostilities, the HENRY A. WILEY operated in dangerously mined waters to serve a total of 31 days in mine-sweeping activities, 23 days on radar picket duty and 18 days in patrol, with an additional 11 nights of screening duty. Handled superbly, she fought off 51 air attacks by enemy planes, on one such occasion enabling other ships in the immediate area to continue uninterruptedly the rescue of survivors from the U.S.S. LUCE. With her guns expertly manned at all times, she succeeded in destroying a total of 12 Japanese planes, including two baka bombs, and assisted in the destruction of three other aircraft. Fulfilling each assigned mission on schedule she emerged without damage from every contact with the enemy. By her efficient protection of minesweeping units, her brilliant performance on radar picket and her accurate gunfire, the HENRY A. WILEY contributed essentially to the success of our forces. Her gallant service throughout the Okinawa Operation attests the valor, skill and devotion to duty of her officers and men and sustains the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.”