THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY
WASHINGTON

The Secretary of the Navy takes pleasure in commending the

UNITED STATES SHIP GWIN

for service as follows

     "For outstanding heroism in action as a Radar Picket Ship, Antiaircraft and Anti-submarine Screen and Minesweeping Support Ship, during the Okinawa Campaign, from March 24 to June 24, 1945. Frequently harassed by Japanese suicide planes as she operated in the heavily mined and uncharted waters off Okinawa, the U.S.S. GWIN defeated all efforts of the enemy to destroy her. Constantly vigilant and ready for battle, she provided invaluable support for minesweeping and other operations in the Okinawa Transport Area and, by her accurate gunfire, downed twelve hostile planes, assisted in destroying three others and routed many more. When a group of approximately ten Japanese aircraft attacked her radar picket station on May 4, the GWIN shot down five planes before she was struck and set afire by another Kamikaze. A seaworthy, fighting ship, complemented by skilled officers and men, the GWIN achieved a gallant record of service which attests the teamwork of her entire company and enhances the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

All personnel attached to and serving on board the U.S.S. GWIN from March 24 to June 24, 1945, are authorized to wear the NAVY UNIT COMMENDATION Ribbon.

James Forrestal
Secretary of the Navy