John M. Clarke

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John M. Clarke, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Dive Bomber, in in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Battle of the Coral Sea, on 8 May 1942. Despite machine-gun fire from an enemy dive bomber, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Clarke boldly closed the range to attack and, directing his fire deliberately and accurately, shot down the enemy plane in flames. His airmanship, courage and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 311 (February 1943)