"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above
and beyond the call of duty as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. Walke
engaged in a detached mission in support of mine sweeping operations to
clear the waters for entry of our heavy surface and amphibious forces
preparatory to the invasion of Lingayen Gulf, Luzon, Philippine Islands,
6 January 1945. Operating without gun support of other surface ships
when four Japanese suicide planes
were detected flying low overland to attack simultaneously, Commander
Davis boldly took his position in the exposed wings of the bridge and
directed control to pick up the leading plane and open fire. Alert and
fearless as the Walke's deadly fire sent the first target
crashing into the water and caught the second as it passed close over
the bridge to plunge into the sea off portside, he remained steadfast in
the path of the third plane plunging swiftly to crash the after end of
the bridge structure. Seriously wounded when the plane struck, drenched
with gasoline and immediately enveloped in flames, he conned the Walke
in the midst of the wreckage; he rallied his command to heroic efforts;
he exhorted his officers and men to save the ship and, still on his
feet, saw the barrage from his guns destroy the fourth suicide bomber.
With the fires under control and the safety of the ship assured, he
consented to be carried below. Succumbing several hours later, Commander
Davis, by his example of valor and his unhesitating self-sacrifice,
steeled the fighting spirit of his command into unyielding purpose in
completing a vital mission. He gallantly gave his life in the service of
his country."
From Cmd. Davis' Medal of Honor citation, awarded in 1946.
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