MAX EUGENE GREGG, for extraodinary heroism as Pilot of a Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron NINETEEN, attached to the U.S.S. LEXINGTON, in action against the enemy Japanese forces during the battle for Leyte Gulf, October 25, 1944. Participating in a vigorous strike mission against major units of the Japanese Fleet, including aircraft carriers, battleships, cruisers and destroyers, Lieutenant Commander (then Lieutenant) Gregg gallantly plunged through the enemy’s intense antiaircraft fire and scored a direct torpedo hit upon a hostile aircraft carrier, contributing materially to her subsequent sinking. Although seriously wounded by enemy fire, he expertly maneuvered his craft and returned her and his aircrewman safe to the carrier. By his brilliant airmanship, indomitable courage and daring tactics, Lieutenant Commander Gregg was instrumental in achieving a victory over the Japanese forces during this battle. His dauntless fighting spirit and unswerving devotion to duty throughout a period of intense aerial activity relects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.

Mr. Gregg resided in Illinois. He joined the Legion of Valor in 1981.