Awards and Commendations
The Enterprise was awarded a Presidential Unit Citation for her service during World War II. The citation states:
| “ | For consistently outstanding performance and distinguished achievement during repeated action against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific war area, 7 December 1941, to 15 November 1942. Participating in nearly every major carrier engagement in the first year of the war, the Enterprise and her air group, exclusive of far-flung destruction of hostile shore installations throughout the battle area, did sink or damage on her own a total of 35 Japanese vessels and shot down a total of 185 Japanese aircraft. Her aggressive spirit and superb combat efficiency are fitting tribute to the officers and men who so gallantly established her as an ahead bulwark in the defense of the American nation. | ” |
In addition to her Presidential Unit Citation, Enterprise received the Navy Unit Commendation and 20 battle stars for World War II service, making her the highest decorated US ship ever.
Finally, she was presented with a British Admiralty Pennant that was hoisted when a majority of the Admiralty Board members were present. The pennant was given to the Big E as a token of respect from an ally. Enterprise is the only ship outside the Royal Navy to receive the honor in the more than 400 years since its creation.
Read more about this topic: USS Enterprise (CV-6)