USS Cowpens Navy Unit Citation

  "For outstanding heroism for action against the enemy Japanese forces in the air, ashore and afloat in the Pacific War Area from October 5, 1943 to August 15, 1945.  Operating continuously in the most forward areas, the USS COWPENS and her air groups struck crushing blows toward annihilating Japanese fighting power; they provided air cover for our amphibious forces; they fiercely countered the enemy’s aerial attacks and destroyed his planes; and they inflicted terrific losses on the Japanese in fleet and merchant marine units sunk or damaged.  Daring and dependable in combat the COWPENS with her gallant officers and men rendered loyal service in achieving the ultimate defeat of the Japanese Empire."

  On 11 June 1946, the Secretary of the Navy awarded the USS Cowpens and her attached Air Groups the Navy Unit Commendation for outstanding heroism displayed by her crew in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific War Area during the periods indicated below: