Thanks for sharing your story Doser. I did a google search on Gil and found the following on
www.homeofheroes.com
It seems that Gil was awarded The Navy Cross.
CATHEY, GILBERT EUGENE
Synopsis:
The Navy Cross is presented to Gilbert Eugene Cathey, Lieutenant (j.g.), U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in action on 24 July 1945, while serving as a carrier-based pilot deployed over the Inland Sea of Japan. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.