John Russell Amussen

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to John Russell Amussen (0-251003), Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron FOURTEEN (VB-14), embarked from the U.S.S. WASP (CV-18), in action against the enemy Japanese Fleet in the vicinity of the East Philippine Sea on 20 June 1944. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Amussen’s attack against an enemy fleet oiler was pressed home to a low altitude with determination and skill in the face of intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire. He scored direct hits with his bombs and contributed heavily to the destruction of the enemy ship. During retirement his excellent airmanship and coolness were instrumental in frustrating enemy fighters which made repeated attacks against his division. While returning to his own forces, his fuel exhausted, he was forced to make a water landing in complete darkness. Both he and his aircrewman escaped injury and were eventually rescued. His courage and skill were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Commander, 1st Carrier Task Force, Pacific: Serial 0583 (September 27, 1944)