Why USS Enterprise received a British naval pennant

Why did USS Enterprise receive the Hamilton Pennant?

It may have honored meritorious Far Eastern service and the protection of Australia, although that explanation is recalled rather than documented here.

Allied decorations can recognize service to a common cause even when the recipient did not act directly for the awarding nation. They can also express goodwill and serve diplomatic purposes. A pennant provides a visible distinction for a ship credited with meritorious service. Enterprise's Far Eastern operations and contribution to Australia's protection are suggested as the reason for this award, although that explanation is tentative.