Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant (junior grade)

Unit:

PT-44

Awarded on:

1942

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant Commander

Unit:

Air Group 50 (AG-50), U.S.S. Cowpens (CVL-25) (Air Group 50 (AG-50), U.S.S. Cowpens (CVL-25))

Awarded on:

August 31st, 1945

Citation:
"For extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo-Bomber and Flight Leader in Air Group FIFTY (AG-50), attached to the U.S.S. COWPENS (CVL-25), in action against major units of the Japanese Fleet anchored in Kure Harbor, Honshu, Japan, on 28 July 1945. Leading a formation of nine torpedo-bomber planes in a glide-bombing attack on an enemy battleship, Lieutenant Commander Melhorn fought his plane gallantly in the face of intense anti-aircraft fire from the target, other major Fleet units and well-placed land batteries. Resolutely pressing home his attack, he scored one direct hit amidships and contributed materially to the success of his flight in scoring at least five other damaging direct hits on the hostile warship. His superb airmanship, indomitable fighting spirit and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

General Orders Nr. 1655, Commander 2d Carrier Task Force (August 31, 1945).
At the time of the action he still held the rank of Lieutenant.