Navy - K-L - Home of Heroes

World War II - Navy Cross - Navy

There are nearly 4,000 recipients of the Navy Cross who were awarded for exemplary and heroic service during World War II.

There are over 2,800 Navy recipients listed below in alphabetical order.

Note: There is the chance that a valid recipient of the Military Cross may NOT be listed herein. Updates to correct any omissions will be made available from time to time.

* Indicates Killed in Action (KIA), Missing in Action (MIA), Prisoner of War (POW), or Died Non-Battle (DNB)

A B C D E-F G-H I-J K-L M N-O P-Q R S T-U V-Z

KABLER, WILLIAM LEVERETTE

KABLER, WILLIAM LEVERETTE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William Leverette Kabler, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Minesweeper U.S.S. HERON (AM-10), during operations in Dutch East Indies on 31 December 1941. When the U.S. warship he commanded was attacked by 15 hostile planes of various types, Lieutenant Kabler fought his ship with such skill that the crew was able to destroy one plane, damage others and frustrate the attack. The conduct of Lieutenant Kabler throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 328 (July 1944)
Born: September 24, 1908 at Roanoke, Virginia
Home Town: Bristol, Virginia

KAELIN, JOSEPH

KAELIN, JOSEPH
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Joseph Kaelin, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron NINE (VF-9), attached to the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-10), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Okinawa on 11 May 1945. Participating in combat air patrol in defense of our occupation forces at Okinawa, Ensign Kaelin intercepted a numerically superior force of hostile aircraft and, courageously engaging the enemy fighters, shot down three, probably destroyed another and damaged two Japanese planes, thereby completely disrupting the formation and eliminating a dangerous threat to our forces. His skill as an airman and gallant fighting spirit reflect the highest credit upon Ensign Kaelin and the United States Naval Service.

KAISER, JEROME

KAISER, JEROME
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Jerome Kaiser, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Combat Plane embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CVL-10), while participating in aerial combat against the Japanese Fleet in the Marianas Islands, during the First Battle of the Philippine Sea, on 20 June 1944. By his airmanship and cool courage in the face of tremendous odds, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Kaiser contributed materially to the infliction of extensive and costly damage on the Japanese Fleet in this decisive engagement and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: December 11, 1918 at New York, New York
Home Town: Mount Vernon, New York

KALUS, DANIEL STEPHEN

KALUS, DANIEL STEPHEN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Daniel Stephen Kalus, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron SEVEN (VB-7), embarked from the U.S.S. HANCOCK (CV-19), in action against enemy Japanese surface forces in Manila Bay, Philippine Islands, on 29 October 1944. Skillfully maneuvering through a deadly barrage of antiaircraft fire, Lieutenant Kalus made a perilously low-level attack on an enemy NACHI-class heavy cruiser. He made a devastating hit on the warship which was subsequently sunk, thereby contributing to the crippling of the enemy surface forces in Manila Bay. Lieutenant Kalus' outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 344 (November 1945)
Born: September 22, 1917 at Cudahy, Wisconsin
Home Town: Cudahy, Wisconsin

KANAGA, FRANZ N.

KANAGA, FRANZ N.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Franz N. Kanaga, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane, in action on 24 July 1945, while 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.

KANE, JOSEPH LESTER

KANE, JOSEPH LESTER
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Joseph Lester Kane, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Escort Carrier U.S.S. PETROF BAY (CVE-80), during action against enemy Japanese forces near the Island of Leyte, Central Philippine Islands, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf from 18 to 29 October 1944. As commanding officer of an escort carrier, Captain Kane furnished air support to amphibious attack groups landing on enemy-held shores. While his ship was under repeated air attacks he maneuvered it skillfully, directing its air groups effectively against an enemy fleet. His actions contributed directly to turning away the Japanese forces from the battle. The exemplary conduct of Captain Kane on this occasion gave great encouragement to the personnel of his ship and its attached squadrons, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 340 (July 1945)
Born: August 19, 1902 at Brooklyn, New York
Home Town: Brooklyn, New York

KANE, WILLIAM RICHARD

KANE, WILLIAM RICHARD
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William Richard Kane, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Plane and Commander of Air Group 10 TEN (AG-10), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), in action from 11 to 25 June 1944, while deployed over the Marianas Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: June 4, 1911 at San Rafael, California
Home Town: San Rafael, California

KARCH, LLOYD ELWOOD

KARCH, LLOYD ELWOOD
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lloyd Elwood Karch, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron EIGHTEEN (VT-18), embarked from the U.S.S. INTREPID (CV-11), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Philippine Islands during the Battle for Leyte Gulf on 24 October 1944. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: December 11, 1921 at Columbus, Ohio

KARNES, AUSTIN C.

KARNES, AUSTIN C.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Austin C. Karnes, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron NINETY-FOUR (VT-94), embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), in action on 24 July 1945, while deployed over Kure, 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.

KARNOWSKI, LAWRENCE STEPHEN

KARNOWSKI, LAWRENCE STEPHEN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lawrence Stephen Karnowski, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action against the enemy while serving as Officer in Charge of Naval Combat Demolition Unit FORTY-FIVE (NCDU-45), during the amphibious assault on the Normandy Coast of France on 6 June 1944. Ensign Karnowski, although under heavy artillery and rifle fire succeeded in clearing a fifty yard gap through the enemy beach obstacles. He exposed himself to enemy fire to rescue a wounded member of his crew in danger of drowning in the rising tide and time after time returned alone to place charges to widen the gap when the rest of his crew had been killed or wounded. When tidal conditions made further demolition impossible, he tended wounded along the beach and assisted in the evacuation of casualties in the absence of sufficient medical personnel. The conduct of Ensign Karnowski throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 334 (January 1945)
Born: October 1, 1916 at Tampa, Kansas
Home Town: Lawrence, Kansas

*KARROL, JOSEPH JOHN

*KARROL, JOSEPH JOHN
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Joseph John Karrol (2385511), Aviation Radioman First Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Rear Gunner of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane of Scouting Squadron FIVE (VS-5), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 - 6 June 1942. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Born: May 5, 1915 at Minerville, New York
Home Town: Cambridge, Massachusetts

KATZ, AARON

KATZ, AARON
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Aaron Katz, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron EIGHT (VT-8), embarked from the U.S.S. SARATOGA (CV-3), during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Solomon Islands Campaign on 24 August 1942. In an unsupported aerial torpedo raid against a Japanese task force, Ensign Katz pressed home his attack through a bursting hail of fire from hostile anti-aircraft batteries. He contributed to the relentless fighting spirit and aggressive courage which enabled his squadron to score one certain hit and two estimated hits on an enemy aircraft carrier. His superb airmanship and unyielding devotion to duty aided greatly in the defeat of a persistent foe and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 313 (April 1943)
Born: January 13, 1917 at Cleveland, Ohio
Home Town: Shaker Heights, Ohio

KATZ, BENJAMIN

KATZ, BENJAMIN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Benjamin Katz, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. TAYLOR (DD-468), during operations in the Solomon Islands Area on the night of 17 - 18 August 1943. When an enemy Japanese force of four destroyers and a large number of landing barges endeavored under cover of night to reinforce the enemy garrisons in the Vella Lavella-Kolombangara Area, Lieutenant Commander Katz, with exceptional tactical skill under relentless gun and torpedo fire, led the TAYLOR in a brilliant interception of the hostile vessels. He fought his ship gallantly and contributed to the destruction of two destroyers, severe damage to a third and the annihilation of a number of landing barges. Having routed the enemy, he brought his vessel through this vital engagement unscathed. The superb leadership and unflinching courage displayed by Commander Katz and the loyal devotion to duty of his crew reflect great credit upon the United Stats Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 332 (November 1944)
Born: April 11, 1904 at Kovno, Russia
Home Town: Cambridge, Massachusetts

KAUFFMAN, DRAPER LAURENCE

KAUFFMAN, DRAPER LAURENCE
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Draper Laurence Kauffman, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for exceptional courage, presence of mind, and devotion to duty and disregard for his personal safety during the Japanese attack on the United States Pacific Fleet in Pearl Harbor, Territory of Hawaii, 7 December 1941. Lieutenant Kauffman unloaded and examined a live 500 pound Japanese bomb lying on the grounds of Fort Schofield, Oahu, Territory of Hawaii. His courage, confidence and exceptional skill made possible the recovery of all parts of this Japanese bomb for study by the Bureau of Ordnance of the Navy Department. The conduct of Lieutenant Kauffman throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: August 4, 1911 at San Diego, California
Home Town: Washington, D.C.
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KAUFFMAN, DRAPER LAURENCE

KAUFFMAN, DRAPER LAURENCE
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Draper Laurence Kauffman, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of Underwater Demolition Team FIVE (UDT-5), in action against the enemy on 14 June and 10 and 11 July 10 1944, at Saipan and Tinian in the Northern Marianas. On 14 June Lieutenant Kauffman led his team in a daylight reconnaissance of fortified enemy beaches under heavy fire. On 10 and 11 July he again led his team in a daring night reconnaissance of the heavily-defended beaches at Tinian Island. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: August 4, 1911 at San Diego, California
Home Town: Washington, D.C.
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KAY, FRANCIS

KAY, FRANCIS
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Francis Kay, Ensign, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and bravery under fire as Officer in Charge of the rescue party of the U.S.S. SKATE (SS-305), on 7 October 1943, while carrying out the hazardous mission of rescuing two aviators who had been shot down near the shores of an enemy base during an attack by our forces. Although under constant and accurate enemy fire, Ensign Kay and his party remained on deck with utter disregard for their own safety and successfully accomplished the rescue of two aviators who had been shot down within 5000 yards of a strong enemy base. His conduct throughout was a brilliant example of leadership and determination and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the naval service.
Born: October 29, 1916 at Yonkers, New York
Home Town: Redlands, California

KEATING, ROBERT A., JR.

KEATING, ROBERT A., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert A. Keating, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. BARBEL (SS-316), on the FIRST War Patrol of that submarine during the period 15 July 1944 to 21 August 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the Pacific War Area. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Keating brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: January 27, 1912 at Boston, Massachusetts
Home Town: Wollaston, Massachusetts

*KEELY, WARREN LEE

*KEELY, WARREN LEE
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Warren Lee Keely, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron TWENTY-ONE (VF-21), embarked from the U.S.S. BELLEAU WOOD (CVL-24), in action on 13 October 1944, while deployed in the Pacific War Area. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: July 18, 1920 at Arcadia, Oklahoma
Home Town: Arcadia, Oklahoma

KEFAUVER, RUSSELL

KEFAUVER, RUSSELL
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Russell Kefauver, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TAMBOR (SS-198), in action on 28 January 1944, during the NINTH War Patrol of that submarine in the East China Sea. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: August 19, 1911 at Fort Riley, Kansas
Home Town: Brooklyn, New York
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KEFAUVER, RUSSELL

KEFAUVER, RUSSELL
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Russell Kefauver, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SPRINGER (SS-414), on a War Patrol of that submarine in enemy controlled waters in 1945. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Kefauver brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: August 19, 1911 at Fort Riley, Kansas
Home Town: Brooklyn, New York
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KEIGHLEY, WILLIAM HAROLD

KEIGHLEY, WILLIAM HAROLD
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William Harold Keighley, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane in Composite Squadron THREE (VC-3), embarked from the U.S.S. KALININ BAY (CVE-68), and deployed over Samar in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands on 25 October 1944. When his task force was in imminent danger of being destroyed by heavy gunfire from an overwhelming force of hostile warships, Lieutenant Commander Keighley piloted one of the first planes launched, immediately maneuvering to attack the leading heavy cruiser. In bold defiance of the enemy's devastating antiaircraft fire, he scored three direct hits. Promptly joining a group of fighting planes when his bomb load was expended, Lieutenant Commander Keighley fought gallantly in the face of terrific opposition, making four determined strafing runs which resulted in considerable damage to the cruiser and effectively diverted hostile fire from our bombers and Torpedo Planes. Lieutenant Commander Keighley's outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 341 (August 1945)
Born: May 15, 1909 at Turtle Creek, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Dallas, Texas

KEISER, NORMAN M.

KEISER, NORMAN M.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Norman M. Keiser, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Commander of a Navy Patrol Plane in Patrol-Bombing Squadron ONE HUNDRED EIGHTEEN (VP-118), in action on 7 May 1945, while deployed over Korea. On that date while part of a five-plane patrol over Korea, Lieutenant Keiser's crew sank a 4,000-ton freighter despite fire from its two destroyer escorts. They then strafed a second vessel, forcing it to beach ashore. Later, on the same patrol, Lieutenant Keiser and his crew strafed and set on fire a third vessel. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

KEITH, LEROY WILLIAM JAMES

KEITH, LEROY WILLIAM JAMES
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to LeRoy William James Keith, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron EIGHTY (VF-80), embarked from the U.S.S. HANCOCK (CV-19), in action on 16 February 1945, while deployed over Tokyo, 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.
Born: June 20, 1916 at Kansas City, Missouri
Home Town: Kansas City, Missouri

KEITHLY, ROGER MYERS

KEITHLY, ROGER MYERS
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Roger Myers Keithly, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TILEFISH (SS-307), on the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine during the period 10 September 1944 to 24 October 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the Pacific War Area. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Keithly brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: October 20, 1911 at Center, Missouri
Home Town: Bremerton, Washington
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KEITHLY, ROGER MYERS

KEITHLY, ROGER MYERS
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Roger Myers Keithly, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TILEFISH (SS-307), on the FOURTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 15 November 1944 to 2 January 1945, in enemy controlled waters of the Pacific War Area. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Keithly brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: October 20, 1911 at Center, Missouri
Home Town: Bremerton, Washington
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KELLEY, CLARENCE H., JR.

KELLEY, CLARENCE H., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Clarence H. Kelley, Jr., Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane, in action on 28 July 1945, while deployed over Kure, 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.

KELLEY, WARREN PETERSON

KELLEY, WARREN PETERSON
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Warren Peterson Kelley, 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 FIFTEEN (VB-15, embarked from the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against enemy Japanese surface forces over the Sibuyan Sea during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands on 24 October 1944. In the face of intense and accurate antiaircraft fire from the whole enemy formation, under extremely hazardous combat conditions, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Kelley participated in a bombing attack on a Japanese cruiser. Fearlessly maneuvering through withering hostile fire of all calibers, he pressed home his attack and, by his expert airmanship, obtained a direct hit which caused certain damage. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Kelley's outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

KELLY, FONVILLE

KELLY, FONVILLE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Fonville Kelly, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron EIGHTY-FIVE (VT-85), attached to the U.S.S. SHANGRI-LA (CV-38), during action against enemy Japanese Fleet units at Kure, Japan, 28 July 1945. Despite intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire from heavy combat ships and shore batteries, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Kelly courageously pressed home a low-altitude bombing attack and scored two direct hits with five hundred pound bombs on the enemy battleship HARUNA, causing serious damage. His skillful airmanship, intrepid spirit and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

KELLY, REEF P.

KELLY, REEF P.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Reef P. Kelly, Aviation Ordnanceman Second Class, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Tail Gunner of a Navy PBY Patrol Plane in a Patrol-Bombing Squadron in action on 11 August 1945, in the Pacific War Area. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

KELLY, ROBERT BOLLING

KELLY, ROBERT BOLLING
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert Bolling Kelly, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while Commanding Motor Torpedo Boat THIRTY-FOUR (PT-34), on the night of 8 - 9 April 1942, while operating in the waters of the Philippine Islands. While illuminated, Lieutenant Kelly made joint attack with PT-41 on a Japanese Kuma class light cruiser screened by four enemy destroyers, under extremely heavy shell fire from her main and secondary batteries and closed to within 300 yards where he struck her with two torpedoes in her engine rooms, which resulted in final sinking. Again in the morning of 9 April 1942, when attacked by four enemy dive bombers in a narrow channel of Cebu Harbor, Lieutenant Kelly though having a hole blown in his boat six-feet across, and with three of his guns out of action, skillfully maneuvered his boat and avoided direct hits on his boat. He fought back with his remaining guns until five of his crew of six were killed or wounded and then when all guns were out of action, he beached his boat to save the wounded. He directed the removal of the wounded and dead from his vessel under continual strafing from the enemy to a place of safety. The exceptional bravery, aggressive leadership, and outstanding devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Kelly were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: June 9, 1913 at New York, New York
Home Town: New York, New York
Awards: Navy Cross (WWII), Distinguished Service Cross (WWII)

*KELTCH, RUBIN

*KELTCH, RUBIN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Rubin Keltch, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving on board the River Gun Boat U.S.S. PLYMOUTH (PG-57), during and after the sinking of that vessel through enemy action near Cape Henry, along the United States' Atlantic coast, on 5 August 1943. When an enemy torpedo crashed into the port side amidships and exploded, causing spreading fires, Ensign Keltch unhesitatingly risked his life to assist several survivors to safety. Proceeding to the engine room in search of others known to be trapped and helpless, he entered the compartment and was himself trapped, thereby losing his life. The conduct of Ensign Keltch throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 325 (April 1944)
Born: February 21, 1919 at New York, New York

KEMPER, GEORGE EMIL

KEMPER, GEORGE EMIL
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to George Emil Kemper, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane during action against enemy surface vessels in the vicinity of Formosa on 12 October 1944. Despite extremely adverse weather conditions, constant enemy fighter attacks and devastating antiaircraft crossfire, Lieutenant Kemper brought his flight into position to make bombing runs on well-selected targets of strategic importance, securing four destructive hits. In a series of running engagements, the flight also destroyed an enemy fighter plane and damaged others. When one of the planes of his flight burst into flames and descended into the ocean, he immediately turned back and made four attempts to effect rescue. Each time he was driven off by enemy fighters, but in the meantime he succeeded in directing a rescue part to the area. Lieutenant Kemper's outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 343 (October 1945)
Born: June 4, 1919 at Cortez, Colorado
Home Town: Cortez, Colorado
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KEMPER, GEORGE EMIL

KEMPER, GEORGE EMIL
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to George Emil Kemper, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane, in action on 26 October 1944, during the Air Battle for Leyte Gulf. Lieutenant Kemper led a flight of planes in a torpedo attack without fighter escort on a heavy cruiser. Despite a heavy concentration of antiaircraft fire and the speedy maneuvering of the target, he not only scored a direct hit himself, but also maneuvered the flight so that there were three hits out of seven torpedoes launched, which resulted in the enemy ship's probable sinking. Lieutenant Kemper's outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 343 (October 1945)
Born: June 4, 1919 at Cortez, Colorado
Home Town: Cortez, Colorado
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KENDALL, JOHN G.

KENDALL, JOHN G.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John G. Kendall, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. LCL (L), TWO-HUNDRE TWELVE (LCL(L)-212), during an enemy air raid on the Harbor of Palermo, Sicily, on 1 August 1943. When hostile bombs straddled his ship and set fire to gasoline drums stored on the dock and to ammunition loaded on a nearby merchant vessel, Lieutenant Kendall immediately recognized the imminent threat to his own craft and three others moored alongside and, directing the cutting of all lines to the blazing dock, successfully got underway with the four ships. Supervising the operations with cool efficiency, he skillfully maneuvered the group to a position of safety, thereby saving all vessels from possible loss. The conduct of Lieutenant Kendall throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 326 (May 1944)
Born: July 25, 1907 at Waco, Texas
Home Town: Pottstown, Pennsylvania

KENNARD, ROBERT ALDRICH

KENNARD, ROBERT ALDRICH
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert Aldrich Kennard, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane and Commanding Officer of Torpedo Squadron TWENTY-ONE (VT-21), embarked from the U.S.S. BATAAN (CVL-29), in action on 19 and 26 October 1944, while deployed over the Philippine Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: June 25, 1915 at Minot, South Dakota
Home Town: Minot, South Dakota

*KENNEDY, JOSEPH P.

*KENNEDY, JOSEPH P.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Joseph P. Kennedy, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Commander of a Navy Liberator Patrol Plane in Bombing Squadron ONE HUNDRED TEN (VB-110), Special Air Unit ONE (Europe), during a special air mission directed at Mimoyecques, France, on 12 August 1944. Well knowing the extreme dangers involved and totally unconcerned for his own safety, Lieutenant Kennedy unhesitatingly volunteered to conduct an exceptionally hazardous and special operational mission. Intrepid and daring in his tactics and with unwavering confidence in the vital importance of his task, he willingly risked his life in the supreme measure of service, and, by his great personal valor and fortitude in carrying out a perilous undertaking, sustained and enhanced the finest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: July 25, 1915 at Nantasket, Massachusetts
Home Town: Hyannisport, Cape Cod, Massachusetts

*KENNEDY, LEO E.

*KENNEDY, LEO E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Leo E. Kennedy, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Commander of a Navy PB4Y Patrol Plane in Patrol-Bombing Squadron ONE HUNDRED NINE (VPB-109), in action on 27 May 1945 off the coast of Korea. In 90 minutes of furious combat Lieutenant Kennedy destroyed a 2,000 ton freighter and three smaller freighters, seriously damaged three others and a large motor schooner and later sank a destroyer. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

KENNEY, EDWARD CHRISTOPHER

KENNEY, EDWARD CHRISTOPHER
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Edward Christopher Kenney, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for distinguished service in the line of his profession, extraordinary courage, and disregard of personal danger while serving as a Medical Officer on board the U.S.S. CALIFORNIA (CL-47), during action against enemy Japanese naval forces off Savo Island during the Battle of Cape Esperance on the night of 11 - 12 October 1942. By his courage, determination, and untiring devotion to duty, Lieutenant Commander Kenney saved many lives. His professional ability, courage, and inspiring devotion to duty upheld the highest traditions of the Medical Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Born: February 19, 1904 at Corning, Ohio
Home Town: Long Beach, California

KENTON, ROLAND H.

KENTON, ROLAND H.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Roland H. Kenton, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron SEVENTY-ONE (VF-71), embarked from the U.S.S. WASP (CV-7), on 7 August 1942, and deployed over the Solomon Islands in support of the landing of U.S. Marines on the islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: October 28, 1918 at New York, New York
Home Town: New York, New York

*KENYON, HENRY RUSSELL, JR. (MIA)

*KENYON, HENRY RUSSELL, JR. (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Henry Russell Kenyon, Jr. (0-098784), Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron EIGHT (VT-8), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-8), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 June 1942. Grimly aware of the hazardous consequences of flying without fighter protection, and with insufficient fuel to return to his carrier, Ensign Kenyon resolutely, and with no thought of his own life, delivered an effective torpedo attack against violent assaults of enemy Japanese aircraft fire. His courageous action, carried out with a gallant spirit of self-sacrifice and a conscientious devotion to the fulfillment of his mission, was a determining factor in the defeat of the enemy forces and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Born: February 4, 1916 at Bronxville, New York
Home Town: Mount Vernon, New York

KENYON, KARL WALTON

KENYON, KARL WALTON
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Karl Walton Kenyon, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Plane embarked from the U.S.S. SANGAMON (CVE-26), in action on 24 October 1944, during the battle of Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: February 23, 1918 at San Diego, California
Home Town: LaJolla, California

KEPFORD, IRA CASSIUS

KEPFORD, IRA CASSIUS
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Ira Cassius Kepford, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron SEVENTEEN (VF-17), in action on 11 November 1943, while deployed over the Solomon Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Muskegon, Michigan
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Ira Cassius Kepford, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron SEVENTEEN (VF-17), in action on 29 January 1944, while deployed over the Solomon Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Muskegon, Michigan
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KERNAN, ALVIN BARNARD

KERNAN, ALVIN BARNARD
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Alvin Barnard Kernan, Aviation Ordnanceman First Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Gunner of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron THREE (VT-3), embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), in action on 26 November 1943, while deployed over Tarawa in the Gilbert Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: June 13, 1923 at Manchester, Georgia
Home Town: Saratoga, Wyoming

KERNODLE, MICHAEL HOLT

KERNODLE, MICHAEL HOLT
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Michael Holt Kernodle, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Air Officer aboard the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. WASP (CV-7), during operations at Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands during the landings of American forces on 7 and 8 August 1942. Commander Kernodle's efficient and skillful direction of the air department of the carrier U.S.S. WASP contributed not only to the defeat of hostile forces during the initial landing in the area, but also to the success of long sustained and arduous operations in support of the Tulagi-Guadalcanal position. Commander Kernodle's conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men, and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 313 (April 1943)
Born: June 25, 1896 at Graham, North Carolina
Home Town: Graham, North Carolina
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KERNODLE, MICHAEL HOLT

KERNODLE, MICHAEL HOLT
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Michael Holt Kernodle, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Light Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. SAN JACINTO (CVL-30), in action against the enemy from 22 March 1945 through 19 May 1945, in the Pacific War Area. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: June 25, 1896 at Graham, North Carolina
Home Town: Graham, North Carolina
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

*KERR, ROBERT CHARLES

*KERR, ROBERT CHARLES
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Robert Charles Kerr (0-363685), Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving on board the Light Cruiser U.S.S. BIRMINGHAM (CL-62), while participating in the salvage and rescue operations of the U.S.S. PRINCETON in the face of enemy attack during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 24 October 1944. Ensign Kerr was seriously wounded when a terrific explosion in the magazine section of the Princeton hurled him from his position on the starboard catapult onto the steel hangar deck. The explosion killed or wounded half of the BIRMINGHAM's crew. Ensign Kerr steadfastly refused medical attention, insisting that others in the area be cared for first. Although still conscious and suffering intense pain, he obtained materials for a tourniquet and after applying it to his injured leg, injected himself and two other casualties with morphine syrettes. Again refusing assistance, he requested that the others be evacuated below decks and, remaining in the danger area for more than an hour while his ship was under constant aerial attack, bravely instructed others in the administration of first and comforted the wounded and the dying. He succumbed to his wounds on the following day. Ensign Kerr's outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 340 (July 1945)
Born: July 28, 1922 at Charleston, South Carolina
Home Town: Charleston, South Carolina

*KETZA, NORBERT FRANK

*KETZA, NORBERT FRANK
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Norbert Frank Ketza, Pharmacist's Mate Third Class, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving as a Medical Corpsman on board the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. TICONDEROGA (CV-14), in action against enemy Japanese forces on 21 January 1945. By his courage and efforts in behalf of others at great risk to his own life, Pharmacist's Mate Third Class Ketza undoubtedly saved many lives, and his steadfast devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Born: November 15, 1925 at Chicago, Illinois
Home Town: Chicago, Illinois

KIBBE, RICHARD LUCIUS

KIBBE, RICHARD LUCIUS
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Richard Lucius Kibbe, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane embarked from the U.S.S. FRANKLIN (CV-13), in action on 24 and 25 October 1944, while deployed over the Philippine Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: November 17, 1911 at Sullivan, Illinois
Home Town: Orlando, Florida

KIECHLIN, ROBERT JEROME

KIECHLIN, ROBERT JEROME
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert Jerome Kiechlin, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession, in action against the enemy while serving at Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands, on 20 November 1943. His great personal valor and unswerving loyalty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: November 2, 1919 at Brooklyn, New York
Home Town: Brooklyn, New York

*KIEFER, DIXIE

*KIEFER, DIXIE
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Dixie Kiefer, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Executive Officer of the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Battle of Midway on 4 June 1942. Commander Kiefer's conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Born: April 4, 1896 at Blackfoot, Idaho
Home Town: Los Angeles, California

KILAND, INGOLF N.

KILAND, INGOLF N.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Ingolf N. Kiland, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander, Task Unit 2.7.2 against Japanese aerial forces in the Solomon Islands area on 17 February 1943. When the task unit under his command was attacked by Japanese Torpedo Planes, Captain Kiland maneuvered his unit with such outstanding courage and tactical ability that he not only brought his forces through without damage but successfully repelled the enemy attack. Captain Kiland's inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 318 (September 1943)
Born: March 26, 1895 at Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Home Town: Arlington, Virginia

KILLIANY, JOHN J.

KILLIANY, JOHN J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John J. Killiany, 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 FIFTEEN (VB-15), embarked from the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against enemy Japanese surface forces over the Sibuyan Sea during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands on 25 October 1944. Fearlessly pressing home a determined attack in the face of extremely intense and accurate antiaircraft fire from the formidable enemy disposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Killiany succeeded in scoring a direct hit upon a Japanese battleship of the ISE class. By his superb airmanship, exceptional courage and steadfast devotion to duty through a perilous assignment, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Killiany contributed materially to the sinking of this valuable enemy fighting unit and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 338 (May 1945)
Born: January 8, 1918 at Oliphant, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Oliphant, Pennsylvania

KILPATRICK, MACGREGOR

KILPATRICK, MACGREGOR
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to MacGregor Kilpatrick, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane embarked from the U.S.S. FRANKLIN (CV-13), in action on 19 March 1945, while deployed over Kobe, 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.

KIMBREL, ROBERT WALKER

KIMBREL, ROBERT WALKER
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert Walker Kimbrel, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CVL-10), while participating in aerial combat against the Japanese Fleet in the Marianas Islands, during the First Battle of the Philippine Sea, on 20 June 1944. By his airmanship and cool courage in the face of tremendous odds, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Kimbrel contributed materially to the infliction of extensive and costly damage on the Japanese Fleet in this decisive engagement and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: March 21, 1920 at Charlotte, North Carolina
Home Town: Charlotte, North Carolina

*KINARD, LEON FREDERICK

*KINARD, LEON FREDERICK
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Leon Frederick Kinard, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron NINETEEN (VB-19) embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), while assigned to strike major Japanese Fleet Units on 25 October 1944, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, in the Philippine Islands. Courageous and skillful in the face of enemy air opposition and extremely intense and continuous fire from hostile anti-aircraft batteries, he boldly pressed home his attack. Ensign Kinard's inspiring courage, daring tactics, and fearless devotion to duty in the face of hazardous flying conditions reflected great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: August 10, 1923 at Moultrie, Georgia
Home Town: Lake City, Florida

KINASZCZUK, THOMAS

KINASZCZUK, THOMAS
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Thomas Kinaszczuk, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Commander of a Navy Patrol Plane in Patrol-Bombing Squadron ONE HUNDRED TWENTY-FIVE (VPB-123), in offensive action against an enemy submarine off Cape Race, Newfoundland, on 27 April 1943. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Thomas Kinaszczuk was on a convoy coverage flight when he sighted a surfaced enemy submarine approaching the convoy on an intercepting course at high speed. Immediately increasing speed, he began his approach for an immediate attack. When the range had closed to about one and one half miles, the submarine commenced a very accurate and heavy anti-aircraft fire which it maintained throughout the attack. With complete disregard for the accuracy of the enemy's fire and the damage which several hits caused to the plane's starboard wing and aileron, the pilot pressed home his attack. Finally, from an altitude of only twenty-five feet, he released his depth bombs. Of the four depth bombs released, three were observed to have exploded beneath the submarine. Shortly after the attack, the submarine broke surface at an extreme angle and soon thereafter sank, stern first, in a nearly perpendicular attitude. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 338 (May 1945)
Born: October 21, 1920 at Elizabeth, New Jersey
Home Town: Elizabeth, New Jersey

KINCAID, ROBERT A.

KINCAID, ROBERT A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert A. Kincaid, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting-Bombing Squadron EIGHTY-TWO (VFB-82), embarked from the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), on 18 July 1945, while deployed over Yokosuka, 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.

KINCANNON, WILLIAM BRUCE

KINCANNON, WILLIAM BRUCE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William Bruce Kincannon, Pharmacist's Mate Third Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving as a Company Corpsman with the FIRST Marine Raider Battalion during an engagement with enemy Japanese forces on Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, on the night of 13 - 14 September 1942. When his company was almost completely surrounded by the Japanese and under attack from all directions, Pharmacist's Mate Third Class Kincannon, with utter disregard for his own personal safety, constantly exposed himself to enemy fire to care for and evacuate the wounded. As a result of his dauntless courage and outstanding devotion to duty, Pharmacist's Mate Third Class Kincannon undoubtedly saved the lives of many of the injured who otherwise might have perished. His courage and efforts in behalf of others at great risk to his own life were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 312 (March 1943) & 318 (September 1943)
Born: June 25, 1921 at Ripley, California
Home Town: Riverside, California

KING, EMMETT THOMAS

KING, EMMETT THOMAS
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Emmett Thomas King, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane embarked from the U.S.S. SANTEE (CVE-29), in action on 25 October 1944, while deployed over Samar during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, in the Philippine Islands. Lieutenant King's outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: May 5, 1909 at San Francisco, California
Home Town: Long Beach, California

KING, JOE WILEY

KING, JOE WILEY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Joe Wiley King, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron EIGHT (VB-8), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-8), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 6 June 1942. With utter disregard for his own personal safety and in the face of intense antiaircraft fire, Ensign King participated in determined and effective bombing and strafing attacks on fleeing enemy Japanese forces, obtaining a successful hit on one of the enemy ships. 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)
Born: February 9, 1917 at Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Home Town: Kansas City, Missouri

KING, SHANE HASTINGS

KING, SHANE HASTINGS
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Shane Hastings King, Commander, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving on board the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. BUNKER HILL (CV-17), in action against the enemy on 11 May 1945, off Okinawa in the Ryukyu Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.

KINNEY, SHELDON HOARD

KINNEY, SHELDON HOARD
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Sheldon Hoard Kinney, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer Escort U.S.S. BRONSTEIN (DE-189), in action against enemy forces on 29 February and 1 March 1944, in the Atlantic. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.

KINSELLA, WILLIAM T.

KINSELLA, WILLIAM T.
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William T. Kinsella, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. RAY (SS-271), on the FIFTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 9 July 1944 to 31 August 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the South China Sea. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Kinsella brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: May 21, 1913 at Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KINSELLA, WILLIAM T.

KINSELLA, WILLIAM T.
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to William T. Kinsella, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. RAY (SS-271), on the SIXTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 23 September 1943 to 8 December 1943, in enemy controlled waters of the Pacific War Area. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Kinsella brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: May 21, 1913 at Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KINTBERGER, LEON SAMUEL

KINTBERGER, LEON SAMUEL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Leon Samuel Kintberger, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. HOEL (DD-533), during action against enemy Japanese forces near Samar in the Philippine Islands, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. Commander Kintberger directed his ship in a surface engagement with a large task force of the Japanese Fleet, during the Battle of Samar Island in Philippine waters. The enemy force was immensely superior in number, firepower and armor, but Commander Kintberger twice brought his ship within four thousand yards of the enemy to launch torpedo attacks on their heavy ships, despite the fact that his ship was under constant fire. With an outstanding display of seamanship, he again maneuvered within short range to bring his surface guns to bear more effectively upon two heavy cruisers, and the many crippling hits he scored helped materially to put these ships out of action. By his actions he diverted enemy fire to himself from the lightly armored carriers he was protecting. By his skill in combat and his dauntless determination, he gave inspiration to his officers and men during a most critical situation. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: April 24, 1910 at Zanesville, Ohio
Home Town: Baltimore, Maryland

*KINZER, EDWARD BLAIN

*KINZER, EDWARD BLAIN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Edward Blain Kinzer, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Scouting Plane in Scouting Squadron FIVE (VS-5), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in action against enemy Japanese forces at Tulagi Harbor on 4 May 1942, and in the Battle of the Coral Sea on 7 and 8 May 1942. These attacks, vigorously and persistently pressed home in the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire, and on 8 May opposed also by enemy fighters, resulted in the sinking or damaging of at least eight enemy Japanese vessels at Tulagi and the sinking of one carrier and the sinking or severe damaging of another in the Coral Sea. Ensign Kinzer's conscientious devotion to duty and gallant self-command against formidable odds were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 323 (February 1944)
Born: August 22, 1917 at Rock, West Virginia
Home Town: Beckley, West Virginia

KIRK, OLIVER G.

KIRK, OLIVER G.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Oliver G. Kirk, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. S-42 (SS-153), in action on 11 May 1942, during the FIRST War Patrol of that submarine in enemy controlled waters of the Southwest Pacific In a night submerged attack, Lieutenant Commander Kirk fired four Mark-10 steam torpedoes at the OKINOSHIMA, obtaining hits on the enemy vessel. Heavily damaged after six hours of depth charging, he made a valiant withdrawal to save his ship. Lieutenant Commander Kirk's conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: September 30, 1907 at Lima, Ohio
Home Town: Waterford, Connecticut

*KIRKHAM, CHARLES NOBLE

*KIRKHAM, CHARLES NOBLE
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Charles Noble Kirkham, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron EIGHTY-FIVE (VF-85), embarked from the U.S.S. SHANGRI-LA (CV-38), in action on 2 June 1945, while deployed over Kyushu, 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.

KIRKPATRICK, CHARLES C.

KIRKPATRICK, CHARLES C.
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Charles C. Kirkpatrick, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TRITON (SS-201), on the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine during the period 13 April 1942 through 14 June 1942, in enemy controlled waters of the Pacific War Area. Taking advantage of every favorable attack with alert skill and courageous efficiency, in aggressive patrol action, Lieutenant Commander Kirkpatrick succeeded in sinking a total of 22,593 tons of enemy merchant shipping and an enemy submarine. By expert maneuvering Lieutenant Commander Kirkpatrick brought his boat safely through without material damage and his crew home without injury or loss of life. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 317 (August 1943)
Born: June 20, 1907 at San Angelo, Texas
Home Town: Atlanta, Georgia
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII), Distinguished Service Cross (WWII), Silver Star (WWII), Legion of Merit w/V, Navy Commendation Medal, Purple Heart

KIRKPATRICK, CHARLES C.

KIRKPATRICK, CHARLES C.
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Charles C. Kirkpatrick, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TRITON (WW-201), on the FOURTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 25 June 1942 to 7 September 1942, in enemy controlled waters of Southwest Pacific. By expert maneuvering he brought his boat safely through without material damage and his crew home without injury or loss of life. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Kirkpatrick brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: June 20, 1907 at San Angelo, Texas
Home Town: Atlanta, Georgia
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII), Distinguished Service Cross (WWII), Silver Star (WWII), Legion of Merit w/V, Navy Commendation Medal, Purple Heart

KIRKPATRICK, CHARLES C.

KIRKPATRICK, CHARLES C.
(Third Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Navy Cross to Charles C. Kirkpatrick, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TRITON (WW-201), on the FIFTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 16 December 1942 to 26 January 1943, in enemy controlled waters of the Pacific War Area. By expert maneuvering Lieutenant Commander Kirkpatrick brought his boat safely through without material damage and his crew home without injury or loss of life. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: June 20, 1907 at San Angelo, Texas
Home Town: Atlanta, Georgia
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII), Distinguished Service Cross (WWII), Silver Star (WWII), Legion of Merit w/V, Navy Commendation Medal, Purple Heart

KIRKPATRICK, CHARLES E.

KIRKPATRICK, CHARLES E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Charles E. Kirkpatrick, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Retired), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action against the enemy while serving with a special reconnaissance detachment in the Pacific War Area from 11 July 1944 to 28 August 1944. Lieutenant Kirkpatrick's conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: January 11, 1909 at Hone Canyon, California
Home Town: Newville, Pennsylvania

KIRKPATRICK, DONALD, JR.

KIRKPATRICK, DONALD, JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Donald Kirkpatrick, Jr., Lieutenant, 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 SIXTEEN (VB-16), embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), in action against the enemy fleet in the vicinity of the East Philippine Sea on 20 June 1944. By his brilliant airmanship, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty, Lieutenant Kirkpatrick contributed materially to the success of our operations in this historic engagement, and his great personal valor in the face of grave peril was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: March 20, 1917 at Springfield, Ohio
Home Town: Evanston, Illinois

KIRKWOOD, PHILIP L.

KIRKWOOD, PHILIP L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Philip L. Kirkwood, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron TEN (VF-10), embarked from the U.S.S. INTREPID (CV-11), in action on 16 April 1945, while deployed over Okinawa in the Ryukyu Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

KIRN, LOUIS JOSEPH

KIRN, LOUIS JOSEPH
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Louis Joseph Kirn, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane and Commanding Officer of Scouting Squadron THREE (VS-3), embarked from the U.S.S. SARATOGA (CV-3), in action against the enemy from 13 September 1942 to 5 October 1942, over Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands.
Born: June 8, 1908 at Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Home Town: Milwaukee, Wisconsin

KIRWIN, JOHN HAWTHORNE

KIRWIN, JOHN HAWTHORNE
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John Hawthorne Kirwin, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron NINE (VT-9), embarked from the U.S.S. SHAMROCK BAY (CVE-84), in action on 7 April 1945, while deployed over Kyushu, 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.

*KIRWIN, JOHN J.

*KIRWIN, JOHN J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to John J. Kirwin, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Turret Officer of the Light Cruiser U.S.S. SAVANNAH (CL-42), while that vessel was stationed in the Gulf of Salerno supporting our landings during the amphibious invasion of Italy on 11 September 1943. When the detonation of an enemy bomb inflicted heavy casualties, set off numerous fires and filled the turret with dense smoke and toxic gases, Lieutenant Kirwin promptly ordered the area abandoned and, despite the imminent danger of magazine explosion, stood by his station in the turret booth. With full knowledge of the serious hazards involved and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, he calmly supervised evacuation and deliberately remained behind to aid in saving the lives of as many of his command as possible when he might easily have escaped. The conduct of Lieutenant Kirwin throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 325 (April 1944)
Born: July 4, 1918 at Newport, Rhode Island
Home Town: Newport, Rhode Island

KITTS, WILLARD A., III

KITTS, WILLARD A., III
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Willard A. Kitts, III, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. NORTHAMPTON (CA-26), during operations against enemy Japanese forces in enemy-controlled waters during the Battle of Tassafaronga on the night of 30 November 1942. Although a number of ships ahead were sunk by hostile bombardment and others were left in flames, Captain Kitts maneuvered his vessel and kept her fighting with all the weapons at his command. When the Northampton was eventually torpedoed, he prevented her from beaching on the enemy shore and thereby enabled the lives of a great many of his crew to be saved. Although every possible effort was exerted to keep the damaged vessel afloat, he was finally compelled to order the crews over the side and, while following after they were all clear, was severely injured. Captain Kitts' inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 316 (July 1943)
Born: April 14, 1894 at Oswego, New York
Home Town: Los Gatos, California

KLAKRING, THOMAS B.

KLAKRING, THOMAS B.
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Thomas B. Klakring, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. GUARDFISH (SS-217), during the FIRST War Patrol of that vessel in enemy controlled waters near Honshu, Japan, during the period 6 August 1942 to 15 September 1942. Despite strong enemy countermeasures and unfavorable sea conditions, Lieutenant Commander Klakring took advantage of every opportunity to strike the enemy and in a series of skillfully conducted attacks succeeded in sinking an 8,215-ton Japanese auxiliary warship, a total of 42,840 tons of Japanese merchant shipping, and damaged a 7,000-ton Japanese freighter. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Klakring brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 313 (April 1943)
Born: December 19, 1904 at Annapolis, Maryland
Home Town: Annapolis, Maryland
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KLAKRING, THOMAS B.

KLAKRING, THOMAS B.
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Thomas B. Klakring, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. GUARDFISH (SS-217), on the SECOND War Patrol of that submarine during the period 30 September 1942 to 28 November 1942, in enemy controlled waters of the South China Sea. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Klakring brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: December 19, 1904 at Annapolis, Maryland
Home Town: Annapolis, Maryland
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KLAKRING, THOMAS B.

KLAKRING, THOMAS B.
(Third Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Navy Cross to Thomas B. Klakring, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. GUARDFISH (SS-217), on the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine during the period 2 January 1943 to 15 February 1943, in enemy controlled waters of the Southwest Pacific. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Klakring brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: December 19, 1904 at Annapolis, Maryland
Home Town: Annapolis, Maryland
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

*KLEIN, MILLARD JEFFERSON (MIA)

*KLEIN, MILLARD JEFFERSON (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Millard Jefferson Klein, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. BUCK (DD-420), during an attack on an enemy submarine while on convoy escort off the Island of Pantelleria in the Mediterranean Sea, on 3 August 1943. Contacting the hostile vessel which was preparing to attack the convoy, Lieutenant Commander Klein skillfully maneuvered for vigorous and aggressive action, depth charging the submarine and forcing her to the surface where the guns of the BUCK completed her destruction, resulting in the subsequent capture of prisoners. Lieutenant Commander Klein's inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of this vital mission and reflects great credit upon the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 326 (May 1944)
Born: July 25, 1908 at Knoxville, Tennessee
Home Town: Roundhill, Virginia

*KLEINSMITH, CHARLES (MIA)

*KLEINSMITH, CHARLES (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Charles Kleinsmith (02428775), Watertender First Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in while serving as a member of the Boiler Crew of No. 1 Fireroom on board the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Battle of Midway on 4 June 1942. During an intense bombing attack the explosion of an enemy bomb in the uptakes of the forward group of boilers extinguished the fires in all boilers except No 1, and filled all boiler rooms with heavy smoke and gasses. In spite of the heat, stifling fumes and the imminence of explosion, Water Tender First Class Kleinsmith and a comrade, with complete disregard for their own personal safety, assisted in keeping the boiler under steam to keep the ship's auxiliary power in operation. Their capable performance of this task helped to make it possible for the YORKTOWN to attain the speed necessary for launching fighting planes in time to oppose a Japanese aerial torpedo attack. The conduct of Watertender First Class Kleinsmith throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 311 (February 1943)
Born: September 28, 1904 at Zionsville, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Long Beach, California

KLEISS, NORMAN JACK

KLEISS, NORMAN JACK
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Norman Jack Kleiss, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane of Scouting Squadron SIX (VS-6), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 - 6 June 1942. Participating in a devastating assault against a Japanese invasion fleet, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Kleiss, with fortitude and resolute devotion to duty, pressed home his attacks in the face of a formidable barrage of anti-aircraft fire and fierce fighter opposition. His gallant perseverance and utter disregard for his own personal safety were important contributing factors to the success achieved by our forces and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 309 (December 1942)
Born: March 7, 1916 at Coffeyville, Kansas
Home Town: Coffeyville, Kansas

KLINGER, ROBERT LEE

KLINGER, ROBERT LEE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert Lee Klinger, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron SIX (VF-6), in action over Kagoshima Bay, Island of Kyushu, Japan, on 29 March 1945. With outstanding skill and courage Lieutenant Klinger led a four plane fighter division on a rescue combat air patrol to protect the life of another pilot forced down in Kagoshim Bay, Kyushu Japan and kept his division over the downed the downed pilot for two hours in spite of enemy fighter plane opposition, heavy anti-aircraft fire and the proximity of ten Japanese airfields including a substantial Naval Air Base at Kanoya, only five miles away. He led his division in an attack upon eight Japanese fighter planes, as a result of which his division shot down a minimum of five enemy aircraft, during the action, he shot down two enemy fighter planes which were making runs on other planes of his division. As a result of his leadership and heroism, five enemy planes were destroyed and a successful rescue effected of the downed pilot from the inland waters of Japan. His shill and courage were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

KLINGERMAN, RAYMOND F.

KLINGERMAN, RAYMOND F.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Raymond F. Klingerman, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane, in action on 12 April 1945, while deployed over Okinawa in the Ryukyu Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

KNAPP, PAUL JOSEPH

KNAPP, PAUL JOSEPH
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Paul Joseph Knapp, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving on board the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2), in action against the enemy on 7 May 1942, during the Battle of the Coral Sea. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: July 1, 1916 at Mason City, Iowa
Home Town: Mason City, Iowa

KNIGHT, FRANK LEROY

KNIGHT, FRANK LEROY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Frank LeRoy Knight, Torpedoman's Mate First Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving on board the Destroyer U.S.S. STACK (DD-406), on the occasion of a collision of that vessel with a large aircraft carrier on 17 March 1942, when, as a result of the collision, No. 1 fireroom of the stack was flooded, the lighting circuits put out and the ship was heeled over at a dangerous angle and being carried across the bow of the aircraft carrier. Despite the pending danger of the depth charges being dislodged by further contact with the carrier, Knight made his way aft in the darkened vessel and, wading waist deep, set all the depth charges on safe. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: February 4, 1908 at Savannah, Georgia
Home Town: Savannah, Georgia

KNISPEL, ARTHUR WILLIAM

KNISPEL, ARTHUR WILLIAM
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Arthur William Knispel, Torpedoman's Mate Third Class, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Member of a party of nine men who boarded and captured the German Submarine U-505,on 4 June 1944, off Cape Blanco in French West Africa. When this party boarded the submarine it was still underway and was running on the surface in a circle, the crew having just been driven overboard by gunfire from the ships and aircraft of Task Group 22.3. There was every reason to believe that there were still enemy personnel below setting demolition charges and scuttling but Torpedoman's Mate Third Class Knispel and two others plunged down the conning tower hatch prepared to fight it out with any enemy personnel they found. Then, although water was pouring into the U-boat and there was the strong possibility that it would blow up or sink at any moment, he remained below and assisted in salvaging the submarine and keeping it afloat so that eventually the submarine was towed to Bermuda. Torpedoman's Mate Third Class Knispel's conduct reflects great credit on the Naval Service and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the U.S. Navy.
Born: August 24, 1925 at Newark, New Jersey
Home Town: Newark, New Jersey

KNOBLES, WILLIAM M.

KNOBLES, WILLIAM M.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William M. Knobles, 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 of Bombing Squadron NINETY-FOUR (VB-94), embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), in action on 28 July 1945, while 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.

KNOPH, ROBERT A.

KNOPH, ROBERT A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert A. Knoph, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane, in action on 19 March 1945, while deployed over Kure, 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.

*KNOX, LESLIE LOCKHART BRUCE

*KNOX, LESLIE LOCKHART BRUCE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Leslie Lockhart Bruce Knox, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron FORTY-TWO (VF-42), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Battle of the Coral Sea. On that evening, as one of the fighters launched to oppose enemy Japanese aircraft in the vicinity of his ship, Ensign Knox attacked a formation of seven enemy aircraft, shooting down one and assisting in the action which resulted in dispersing the others. In this engagement he displayed unusual skill and devotion to duty, carrying out his mission with determination and aggressiveness against great enemy odds and with complete disregard for his own personal safety. He failed to return from this action. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: November 7, 1916 at Brisbane, Australia
Home Town: Hillside, New Jersey

KOCH, WALTER MERKEL

KOCH, WALTER MERKEL
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Walter Merkel Koch, 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 of Bombing Squadron SIXTEEN (VB-16), embarked from the U.S.S. RANDOLPH (CV-15), in action on 18 July 1945, while deployed over Honshu, 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.

KOCH, WESLEY ARTHUR

KOCH, WESLEY ARTHUR
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Wesley Arthur Koch, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron SIXTEEN (VB-16), embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), while assigned to strike major Japanese Fleet Units on 25 October 1944, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, in the Philippine Islands. His courage, daring tactics and fearless devotion to duty were essential factors in the success of our forces and reflect the highest credit upon Ensign Koch and the United States Naval Service.
Born: December 5, 1918 at Irvington, New Jersey
Home Town: Hawthorne, New Jersey

KOEN, GEORGE

KOEN, GEORGE
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to George Koen, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Plane, in action on 29 October 1944, while deployed over Manila Bay in the Philippine Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: October 21, 1921 at Phillipsville, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Jefferson, North Carolina

*KOLB, OTTO FERDINAND, JR. (MIA)

*KOLB, OTTO FERDINAND, JR. (MIA)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Otto Ferdinand Kolb, Jr. (0-077161), Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving on board the Dutch war ship H.M.S. De RUYTER, in action against enemy Japanese forces from 1 January 1942 to 27 February 1942, during the Battle of the Java Sea. The conduct of Lieutenant Kolb throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Born: June 3, 1914 at Savannah, Georgia
Home Town: Savannah, Georgia

KONRAD, EDMOND G.

KONRAD, EDMOND G.
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Edmond G. Konrad, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Plane and Commander of Air Group SEVENTEEN (AG-17), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-12), in action on 19 March 1945, while deployed over Kure, 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.
Born: March 6, 1909 at Oshkosh, Wisconsin
Home Town: Oshkosh, Wisconsin
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KONRAD, EDMOND G.

KONRAD, EDMOND G.
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Edmond G. Konrad, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Plane and Commander of Air Group SEVENTEEN (AG-17), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-12), in action on 7 April 1945, while deployed over the East China Sea. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: March 6, 1909 at Oshkosh, Wisconsin
Home Town: Oshkosh, Wisconsin
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

KOPF, FRANK A.

KOPF, FRANK A.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Frank A. Kopf, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane, in action on 24 July 1945, while deployed over Kure, 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.

KOSSLER, HERMAN J.

KOSSLER, HERMAN J.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Herman J. Kossler, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. CAVALLA (SS-244), on the FIRST War Patrol of that submarine during the period 31 May 1944 to 3 August 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the Philippine Sea. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: December 8, 1911 at Portsmouth, Virginia
Home Town: Portsmouth, Virginia

KOSTER, HERBERT ANTHONY

KOSTER, HERBERT ANTHONY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Herbert Anthony Koster, Ensign, 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 TWENTY (VB-20), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during action against units of the Japanese Fleet in waters west of the Central Philippine Islands during the Battle for Leyte Gulf on 24 October 1944. Flying as wingman on a search and attack mission when an enemy task force was sighted and his division was assigned the Japanese battleship MUSASHI as a target, Ensign Koster defied the withering barrages of antiaircraft fire to dive low over the hostile warship and release his bombs at perilously low altitude to score direct hits which started fires and contributed materially to the infliction of extensive damage on the Japanese vessel. His superb airmanship, inspiring courage and unwavering devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Ensign Koster and the United States Naval Service.
Born: June 12, 1924 at New Orleans, Louisiana
Home Town: New Orleans, Louisiana

KOVAR, ISADORE M.

KOVAR, ISADORE M.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Isadore M. Kovar, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while Commanding Motor Torpedo Boat ONE HUNDRED THIRTY-SEVEN (PT-137), during action against enemy Japanese forces off Panaon Island, Philippine Islands, during the Battle of Surigao Strait, the night of 24 - 25 October 1944. On patrol at Binit Point at the entrance to Surigao Strait when a strong Task Force of the Japanese Fleet entered the Strait, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Kovar boldly approached the enemy destroyer "Abukuma," sighted visually and proceeding southward at slow speed. Closing the range to 700 yards, he launched a skillful torpedo attack and scored a hit which left the target seriously crippled and an easy prey for our air forces to sink on the following day. Immediately illuminated by hostile star shells, Lieutenant Kovar commenced evasive withdrawal action and, by his expert conning of the boat and his cool maneuvering in the face of grave danger, enabled the PT-137 to escape. The exceptional bravery, aggressive leadership, and outstanding devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Kovar were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

KRAMER, IRVIN, JR.

KRAMER, IRVIN, JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Irvin Kramer, Jr., Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron NINETEEN (VT-19) embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), while assigned to strike major Japanese Fleet Units on 25 October 1944, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, in the Philippine Islands. Courageous and skillful in the face of enemy air opposition and extremely intense and continuous fire from hostile anti-aircraft batteries, he boldly pressed home his attack. By his superb airmanship, daring combat tactics and courage maintained in the face of tremendous opposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Kramer contributed materially to the infliction of extensive damage and destruction on the Japanese Fleet in this decisive battle, and his gallant devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: February 17, 1922 at Woodland, California
Home Town: Knights Landing, California

KRAPF, ARTHUR E.

KRAPF, ARTHUR E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Arthur E. Krapf, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. JACK (SS-259), on the FIFTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 4 June 1944 to 14 July 1944, in enemy controlled waters off Manila in the Philippine Islands. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Krapf brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: April 8, 1911 at Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Annapolis, Maryland

*KREAMER, WALTER HAIN

*KREAMER, WALTER HAIN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Walter Hain Kreamer, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Communications Officer on board the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. FRANKLIN (CV-13), which was striking the Japanese home islands in the vicinity of Kobe, Japan, on 19 March 1945. When the FRANKLIN was struck by enemy bombs which caused tremendous fires and explosions among a large number of fully armed and fueled planes both on the flight deck and in the hangar, Lieutenant Commander Kreamer established an emergency radio receiver and transmitter on the flight deck when communications were completely disrupted. With great courage, he personally operated the radio equipment and continued to transmit and receive vital messages while exposed to flying fragments of exploding bombs and rockets and enemy strafing. The conduct of Lieutenant Commander Kreamer throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 341 (December 1945)
Home Town: Black Mountain, North Carolina

KREPSKI, THEODORE E.

KREPSKI, THEODORE E.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Theodore E. Krepski, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action against the enemy while serving in charge of a Rescue Boat from the Destroyer U.S.S. HAMMANN (DD-412), following the attack on the U.S.S. LEXINGTON in the Coral Sea on 8 May 1942. Ensign Krepski persistently returned to the burning U.S.S. LEXINGTON, and under a hail of flaming debris from exploding bombs, ammunition, and gasoline, effected a series of rescues as officer in charge of a boat detailed to rescue survivors. He saved the lives of many who would have otherwise perished. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 315 (June 1943)
Born: January 12, 1918 at New York, New York
Home Town: New York, New York

KRESSE, WALTER A.F., JR.

KRESSE, WALTER A.F., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Walter A.F. Kresse, Jr., Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane, in action on 24 July 1945, while deployed over Kure, 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.

KROEGER, EDWIN JOHN

KROEGER, EDWIN JOHN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Edwin John Kroeger, 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 of Bombing Squadron SIX (VB-6), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 - 6 June 1942. Defying extreme danger from concentrated anti-aircraft barrage and powerful fighter opposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Kroeger, with bold determination and courageous zeal, participated in dive-bombing assaults against Japanese naval units. Flying at a distance from his own forces which rendered return unlikely because of probable fuel exhaustion, he pressed home his attacks with extreme disregard for his own personal safety. His gallant intrepidity and loyal devotion to duty contributed greatly to the success of our forces and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: October 29, 1913 at Akron, Ohio
Home Town: Akron, Ohio

KROEGER, FREDERICK EVERETT

KROEGER, FREDERICK EVERETT
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Frederick Everett Kroeger, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron TWENTY-THREE (VT-23), embarked from the U.S.S. LANGLEY (CV-27), in action against enemy Japanese forces near Kyushu, Japan, on 7 April 1945. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

KROUSE, MICHAEL HENRY

KROUSE, MICHAEL HENRY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Michael Henry Krouse, Lieutenant [then Ensign], U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron TWENTY (VT-20), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Philippine Islands during the Battle for Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. Undaunted by intense enemy antiaircraft fire, Lieutenant Krouse pressed home vigorous attacks upon an enemy battleship to score a direct hit upon the hostile vessel resulting in its severe damage. His courage, expert airmanship and unwavering devotion to duty contributed to the success of his squadron in fulfilling this dangerous mission and reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.
Born: July 26, 1922 at Columbus Grove, Ohio
Home Town: Bowling Green, Ohio

KRUCK, WARREN

KRUCK, WARREN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Warren Kruck, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane in Composite Squadron TWENTY (VC-20), embarked from the U.S.S. KADASHAN BAY (CVE-76), in action against enemy Japanese forces near Samar in the Philippine Islands during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. When his escort carrier group was threatened with annihilation during the Battle of Samar, Ensign Kruck skillfully and resolutely made an attack on an enemy battleship, part of a greatly superior enemy force. He displayed utter disregard for his own safety and was without assistance from other aircraft. Although the concentrated fire of the enemy force seriously damaged his plane, he persisted in his run and scored a hit, damaging the ship severely and causing it to turn away from the escort carrier group. His courage, aggressiveness, and cool disregard for danger were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 339 (June 1945)
Born: June 10, 1921 at Sioux City, Iowa
Home Town: Boone, Iowa

*KUDER, WILLIAM A.

*KUDER, WILLIAM A.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to William A. Kuder, 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 SEVEN (VB-7), embarked from the U.S.S. HANCOCK (CV-19), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Sulu Sea in the Philippine Islands, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. A pilot of a carrier-based bombing plane, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Kuder distinguished himself by sighting an enemy heavy cruiser in the Sulu Sea and, in spite of intense enemy antiaircraft fire, he pressed home his attack and scored a direct hit which inflicted serious damage. His utter disregard of his own safety, his courage and skill were in keeping with the traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 339 (June 1945)
Born: January 27, 1921 at Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Home Town: Virginia Beach, Virginia

KUHN, WILLIAM R.

KUHN, WILLIAM R.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William R. Kuhn, 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 of Bombing Squadron EIGHTY-TWO (VB-82), embarked from the U.S.S. BENNINGTON (CV-20), in action against Japanese forces on 7 April 1945, while deployed over the East China Sea. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

KUNKLE, ROBERT D.

KUNKLE, ROBERT D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert D. Kunkle, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Commander of a Navy Catalina Flying Boat while on patrol off the north coast of New Britain on 28 March 1944. Locating two Japanese destroyers, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Kunkle immediately launched a vigorous attack at mast-head level only to have the run go for naught when the bombs failed to release, Undismayed, he wheeled about and pressed home a second attack, diving through a withering sheet of antiaircraft fire from the two ships and from enemy shore installations to score two probable hits on one of the destroyers. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Kunkel's outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 337 (April 1945)
Born: November 2, 1918 at Peru, Indiana
Home Town: Dallas, Texas

*KYES, JAMES E. (MIA)

*KYES, JAMES E. (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to James E. Kyes, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. LEARY (DD-158), during action against a concentrated force of hostile submarines in the North Atlantic on the night of 23 December 1943. As Commander Kyes boldly maneuvered to close the range on four of the hostile pack, the enemy struck, mortally damaging the Leary with three torpedo hits and causing her to start sinking rapidly. After giving the order to abandon ship, Commander Kyes coolly and courageously made a personal inspection in order to assure himself that none of his men remained aboard. Preparing to abandon the stricken vessel and observing one of his crew whose lifejacket was torn and useless, Commander Kyes gallantly removed his own, gave it to the man and then calmly went over the side. Commander Kyes' inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 325 (April 1944)
Born: April 16, 1906 at Everett, Washington
Home Town: McMennville, Oregon

LAFFAN, JOHN JAMES

LAFFAN, JOHN JAMES
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John James Laffan, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Gunnery Officer aboard the Light Cruiser U.S.S. BOISE (CL-47), during action against enemy Japanese naval forces off Savo Island during the Battle of Cape Esperance on the night of 11 - 12 October 1942. Lieutenant Commander Laffan's conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: April 24, 1902 at Irvington, New York
Home Town: Irvington, New York

LAHODNEY, WILLIAM J.

LAHODNEY, WILLIAM J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William J. Lahodney, Lieutenant Commander [then Lieutenant], U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Commander of a Navy PBY Patrol Plane in Patrol Squadron FIFTY-TWO (VP-52), in action against Japanese forces seventy miles northeast of Rabaul, on 26 November 1943. Repeatedly attacking an enemy force consisting of a cruiser and three destroyers at extremely close range and in the face of concentrated and accurate heavy antiaircraft fire. Lieutenant Commander Lahodney scored hits with a five-hundred-pound and a one-thousand-pound bomb, causing severe damage to the Japanese cruiser. When his plane was struck by enemy antiaircraft fire which made over one hundred holes in the aircraft, destroyed the radar, severed several hull strength members and the rudder cables and threw the plane out of control, he skillfully regained control of the aircraft and, flying through darkness and stormy weather, over ocean and dangerous mountain terrain for five hours, finally returned safe to base. Lieutenant Commander Lahodney's expert airmanship, courage, aggressiveness and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: October 8, 1920 at Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Milton, Pennsylvania

LAMADE, JOHN D.

LAMADE, JOHN D.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John D. Lamade, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane and Commanding Officer of Combat Air Group SEVEN (CAG-7), embarked from the U.S.S. HANCOCK (CV-19), in action against enemy Japanese forces over Philippine waters during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. As leader of a carrier- based aircraft strike against the Japanese Fleet, Commander Lamade organized and directed his forces in a manner resulting in major damage to the enemy. After his own aircraft had been seriously damaged, he courageously made an attack on an enemy battleship. Commander Lamade's outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 339 (June 1945)
Born: April 2, 1910 at Williamsport, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Williamsport, Pennsylvania

*LAMB, WILLIAM E.

*LAMB, WILLIAM E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to William E. Lamb, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron TWENTY-SEVEN (VF-27), embarked from the U.S.S. PRINCETON (CVL-23), in action on 19 July 1944, while deployed over the Marianas Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: September 6, 1916 at St. Louis, Missouri
Home Town: St. Louis, Missouri

*LAMBERSON, WILLIAM LACEY

*LAMBERSON, WILLIAM LACEY
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to William Lacey Lamberson, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron THREE (VF-3), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-10), in action on 12 January 1945, while deployed over French Indochina. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: October 30, 1916 at Oskaloosa, Iowa
Home Town: Oskaloosa, Iowa

LAMBERT, VALDEMAR GREENE

LAMBERT, VALDEMAR GREENE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Valdemar Greene Lambert, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane and Squadron Commander of Torpedo Squadron FIFTEEN (VT-15), embarked from the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against enemy Japanese surface forces over the Sibuyan Sea during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands on 25 October 1944. In the face of intense and accurate enemy antiaircraft fire, Lieutenant Commander Lambert skillfully deployed his forces in a coordinated, vigorous attack during which he scored a torpedo hit on an enemy carrier and inflicted maximum damage to the enemy fleet without loss to his own force. Undaunted in the face of relentless, devastating antiaircraft fire, he rendered gallant service during the bitterly fought engagement in which all carriers, a light cruiser and a destroyer of the enemy's task force were sunk and heavy bomb and torpedo damage inflicted on battleships and other important naval units. By his daring airmanship, exceptional courage and steadfast devotion to duty through a perilous assignment, Lieutenant Commander Lambert contributed materially to the sinking of this valuable enemy fighting unit and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 338 (May 1945)
Born: April 5, 1915 at Fullerton, Louisiana
Home Town: Jennings, Louisiana

LAMPMAN, LELAND R.

LAMPMAN, LELAND R.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Leland R. Lampman, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. THATCHER (DD-514), during an engagement with Japanese naval forces at Empress Augusta Bay, off Bougainville, Solomon Islands, on the night of 1 - 2 November 1943. With his Task Force engaging a Japanese surface force of superior fire power, Commander Lampman sought out and engaged six Japanese warships, pressing home vigorous and unrelenting attacks. He hurled the full fighting strength of his ship against the enemy and, by his inspiring leadership and skilled combat tactics, evoked the indomitable fighting spirit which enabled his officers and men to contribute materially to the sinking of four ships and the serious damaging of two others, thereby aiding in the establishment of our beachhead on Bougainville Island. Commander Lampman's inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.

*LANDES, ROBERT JELLISON

*LANDES, ROBERT JELLISON
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Robert Jellison Landes, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action against the enemy while serving on board the Destroyer U.S.S. REID (DD-369), in action against the enemy on 11 December 1944, in the Mindanao Sea in the Philippine Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Born: January 28, 1922 at Salt Lake City, Utah
Home Town: Salt Lake City, Utah

LANE, CHARLES SMITH

LANE, CHARLES SMITH
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Charles Smith Lane, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron THREE (VB-3), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 - 6 June 1942. Ensign Lane took part in dive-bombing attacks against Japanese naval forces in the Battle of Midway. Disregarding the extreme danger from intense anti-aircraft fire and enemy fighter opposition, he, vigorously and with heroic determination, pressed home his attacks against the Japanese invasion fleet thereby contributing in great measure to the glorious and decisive victory of our forces. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: February 21, 1917 at Reidsville, North Carolina
Home Town: Leaksville, North Carolina

LANG, JAMES P.

LANG, JAMES P.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to James P. Lang, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane embarked from the U.S.S. BENNINGTON (CV-20), in action on 28 July 1945, while deployed over Kure Harbor, 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.

LANGDON, NED W.

LANGDON, NED W.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Ned W. Langdon, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron SEVENTEEN (VF-17), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-12), in action on 6 April 1945, while deployed over Okinawa in the Ryukyu Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

LANGDON, RICHARD H.

LANGDON, RICHARD H.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Richard H. Langdon, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron EIGHTY-THREE (VF-83), embarked from the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action on 7 April 1945, while deployed over Kyushu, 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.

LANGRALL, JAMES HARKER

LANGRALL, JAMES HARKER
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to James Harker Langrall, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron NINETEEN (VT-19) embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), while assigned to strike major Japanese Fleet Units on 25 October 1944, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, in the Philippine Islands. Courageous and skillful in the face of enemy air opposition and extremely intense and continuous fire from hostile anti-aircraft batteries, he boldly pressed home his attack. By his superb airmanship, daring combat tactics and courage maintained in the face of tremendous opposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Langrall contributed materially to the infliction of extensive damage and destruction on the Japanese Fleet in this decisive battle, and his gallant devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: November 26, 1921 at Baltimore, Maryland
Home Town: Baltimore, Maryland

LANING, CALEB B.

LANING, CALEB B.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Caleb B. Laning, Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. HUTCHINS (DD-476), in action against enemy Japanese forces at Surigao Strait during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands on the night of 24 - 25 October 1944. This successful attack contributed in large measure to eliminating an imminent and dangerous threat to our transports and other ships in Leyte Gulf. Commander Laning's high professional skill, forceful leadership, and gallant devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: March 27, 1906 at Kansas City, Missouri
Home Town: Washington, D.C.

LAPE, EUGENE J.R.

LAPE, EUGENE J.R.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Eugene J.R. Lape, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Plane in Combat Air Group EIGHTY-TWO (CAG-82), embarked from the U.S.S. BENNINGTON (CV-20), in action on 19 March 1945, while deployed over Kure, 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.

*LARKIN, EDWARD WILLIAM, JR. (MIA)

*LARKIN, EDWARD WILLIAM, JR. (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Edward William Larkin, Jr., Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron THIRTEEN (VT-13), embarked from the U.S.S. FRANKLIN (CV-13), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Manila Bay area on 19 October 1944. Lieutenant Larkin boldly led a flight of three bombers without fighter support in an attack on a large enemy tanker. He plunged through a formidable curtain of merciless fire to press home brilliant strikes, scoring a direct hit and two near misses, which resulted in the sinking of the enemy ship. Superb in combat and fighting with indomitable courage throughout this and numerous other missions, Lieutenant Larkin inspired his squadron mates with his high standards of aerial achievement. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 343 (October 1945)
Born: September 2, 1919 at Springfield, Massachusetts
Home Town: Springfield, Massachusetts

LAROE, EDWARD TERHUNE

LAROE, EDWARD TERHUNE
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Edward Terhune Laroe, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron EIGHTY-EIGHT (VB-88), in action against the Japanese on 18 and 28 July 1945. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

LARSEN, HAROLD H.

LARSEN, HAROLD H.
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Harold H. Larsen, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane and Commanding Officer of Torpedo Squadron EIGHT (VT-8), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-3), in action on 24 August, while deployed over the Solomon Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: August 11, 1911 at Omaha, Nebraska
Home Town: Collingswood, New Jersey
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LARSEN, HAROLD H.

LARSEN, HAROLD H.
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Harold H. Larsen, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane and Commanding Officer of Torpedo Squadron EIGHT (VT-8), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-3), in action on 16 September, while deployed over the Solomon Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: August 11, 1911 at Omaha, Nebraska
Home Town: Collingswood, New Jersey
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LARSEN, LEIF WALTHER

LARSEN, LEIF WALTHER
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Leif Walther Larsen, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Plane embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in action against enemy Japanese forces at Tulagi Harbor on 4 May 1942, and in the Battle of the Coral Sea on 7 and 8 May 1942. Ensign Larsen's outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: November 11, 1917 at Capital, Montana
Home Town: Deadwood, South Dakota

LARSEN, ORRIN K.

LARSEN, ORRIN K.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Orrin K. Larsen, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Combat Plane, in action on 24 July 1945, while deployed over Kure, 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.

LARSON, NILS RODNEY

LARSON, NILS RODNEY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Nils Rodney Larson, Ensign, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of an airplane, and for extraordinary courage and disregard of his own safety during the attack on the Fleet in Pearl Harbor, Territory of Hawaii, by Japanese forces on 7 December 1941. Although contact with the enemy meant almost certain destruction and despite the lack of any armament in this type plane, Ensign Larson voluntarily piloted a JRS amphibian plane, equipped with only Springfield rifles, in search for and to obtain information of the enemy forces. Ensign Larson's outstanding courage, daring airmanship and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: December 13, 1918 at Worcester, Massachusetts
Home Town: Providence, Rhode Island

LATHAM, RICHARD CLARK

LATHAM, RICHARD CLARK
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Richard Clark Latham, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TINOSA (SS-238), on the ELEVENTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 29 May 1945 to 4 July 1945, in enemy controlled waters in the Sea of Japan. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Latham brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

*LATTA, FRANK DEVERE

*LATTA, FRANK DEVERE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Frank DeVere Latta, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. NARWAHL (SS-167), on SIX successive War Patrols of that submarine during the period 30 April 1943 to 7 February 1944, in enemy controlled waters of Pacific War Zone. Applying himself with keen foresight and unwavering attention to detail, Commander Latta assisted materially in planning a series of extremely hazardous missions and later carried out each difficult assignment with outstanding success. During these patrols, he maneuvered his vessel for maximum striking power and succeeded in sinking an important amount of vital hostile shipping. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 337 (April 1945)
Born: January 10, 1909 at Indianapolis, Indiana
Home Town: Burlington, Iowa

LATTIN, JACK MALCOLM

LATTIN, JACK MALCOLM
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Jack Malcolm Lattin, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron EIGHTY-ONE (VF-81), embarked from the U.S.S. WASP (CV-18), in action on 17 February 1945, while deployed over Tokyo Bay, 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.
Born: May 4, 1921 at Biggar, Saskatchewan, Canada
Home Town: Seattle, Washington

LAUB, ROBERT EDWARD

LAUB, ROBERT EDWARD
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Robert Edward Laub, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron SIX (VT-6), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 June 1942. Participating in a vigorous and intensive assault against the Japanese invasion fleet, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Laub pressed home his attack with relentless determination in the face of a terrific barrage of anti-aircraft fire. The unprecedented conditions under which his squadron launched its offensive were so exceptional that it is highly improbably the occasion may ever recur where other pilots of the service will be called upon to demonstrate an equal degree of gallantry and fortitude. His extreme disregard of personal safety contributed materially to the success of our forces and his loyal conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 308 (November 1942)
Born: August 4, 1917 at Pittsburg, Kansas
Home Town: Stoutland, Missouri

LAUGHON, WILLARD R.

LAUGHON, WILLARD R.
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Willard R. Laughon, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. RASHER (SS-269), on the THIRD War Patrol of that submarine during the period 19 February 1944 to 4 April 1944, in the Celebes. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Laughon brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: January 29, 1911 at Princeton, West Virginia
Home Town: Long Beach, California
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LAUGHON, WILLARD R.

LAUGHON, WILLARD R.
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Willard R. Laughon, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. RASHER (SS-269), on the FOURTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 30 April 1944 to 23 June 1944, in enemy controlled waters in the Celebes. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Laughon brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: January 29, 1911 at Princeton, West Virginia
Home Town: Long Beach, California
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LAUTRUP, GEORGE W., JR.

LAUTRUP, GEORGE W., JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to George W. Lautrup, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. GAR (SS-206), on the TENTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 16 December 1943 to 9 February 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the Pacific War Area. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Lautrup brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: March 18, 1912 at Yonkers, New York
Home Town: Yonkers, New York

LAWRENCE, JOHN CREIG

LAWRENCE, JOHN CREIG
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John Creig Lawrence, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting-Bombing Squadron TWELVE (VFB-12), embarked from the U.S.S. INTREPID (CV-11), on 7 April 1945, while deployed over the East China Sea. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

LAWTON, ERNEST JAMES, JR.

LAWTON, ERNEST JAMES, JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Ernest James Lawton, Jr., 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 TEN (VB-10), attached to the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), in action against enemy Japanese forces west of the Marianas Islands, during the First Battle of the Philippine Sea, on 20 June 1944. By his airmanship and cool courage in the face of tremendous odds, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Lawton contributed materially to the infliction of extensive and costly damage on the Japanese Fleet in this decisive engagement and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: October 14, 1917 at Lynn, Massachusetts
Home Town: Palmer, Massachusetts

LAZ, LEROY LESTER

LAZ, LEROY LESTER
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to LeRoy Lester Laz, 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), while participating in an aerial attack against a Japanese task force on 25 October 1944, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Sea. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Laz's outstanding courage, daring airmanship and disregard of personal safety was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: January 24, 1923 at Chicago, Illinois
Home Town: Aurora, Illinois

LEAKE, THOMAS MURRAY

LEAKE, THOMAS MURRAY
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Thomas Murray Leake, 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 SIX (VB-6), embarked from the U.S.S. HANCOCK (CV-19), in the attack on major units of the Japanese fleet in Kure Harbor, Japan, consisting of battleships, carriers and heavy cruisers, on 24 July 1945. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

*LECAPTAIN, BERNHARD

*LECAPTAIN, BERNHARD
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Bernhard LeCaptain, Pharmacist's Mate Second Class, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving as a Medical Corpsman attached to the Second Battalion, Ninth Marines, THIRD Marine Division, during the battle for Fonte Hill, Guam, on 25 July 1944. Pharmacist's Mate Second Class LeCaptain repeatedly risked his life to minister to men wounded in battle. He unhesitatingly ran through heavy machinegun fire 75 yards to a wounded Marine and then carefully used the scant cover of a small parapet to protect the Marine. He himself remained exposed, while administering first aid. Continuing his daring and gallant service, he dragged another casualty to a nearby raving to provide comparative safety during medical treatment. A few minutes later he braved the intense barrage to rescue another wounded man who lay in the fire land. Although severely wounded by rifle fire while caring for his patient, Pharmacist's Mate Second Class LeCaptain continued his task. He attempted to rise from his kneeling position only to collapse from extreme loss of blood and succumb before assistance could reach him. By his courage and efforts in behalf of others at great risk to his own life, Pharmacist's Mate Second Class LeCaptain undoubtedly saved many lives, and his steadfast devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 341 (August 1945)
Born: September 29, 1923 at Ladysmith, Wisconsin
Home Town: Glen Flora, Wisconsin

LECKLIDER, RUSSELL PAUL

LECKLIDER, RUSSELL PAUL
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Russell Paul Lecklider, Ensign, 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 TWO (VB-2), embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2), in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Air Battle of the Coral Sea on 7 May 1942. In the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire and fierce fighter opposition, Ensign Lecklider dived his plane at an enemy Japanese aircraft carrier and released his bomb with calm accuracy. By grim determination and expert appraisal of his objective, he contributed materially to the high percentage of hits inflicted by his particular squadron and assisted in ultimate destruction of the enemy carrier. His individual action was an important factor in the collective success of those United States Naval forces which engaged in the enemy in the Battle of the Coral Sea. Ensign Lecklider's outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 307 (October 1942)
Born: November 24, 1918 at Toledo, Ohio
Home Town: Toledo, Ohio

LEE, CLYDE JAMESON

LEE, CLYDE JAMESON
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Clyde Jameson Lee, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Combat Plane in action on 7 April 1945, while deployed over Kyushu, 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.

LEE, FITZHUGH

LEE, FITZHUGH
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Fitzhugh Lee, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Escort Carrier U.S.S. MANILA BAY (CVE-61), in a surface engagement with a large task force of the Japanese Fleet near the Island of Samar in Philippine waters during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. With outstanding skill, Captain Lee maneuvered his under intense fire from enemy heavy forces vastly superior in numbers, armament and armor. By his own courage and gallant determination, he gave encouragement to his officers and men during this crucial ordeal. His heroic actions have brought great distinction upon himself and his conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 346 (January 1946)
Born: August 19, 1905 at Batanhgas, Philippine Islands
Home Town: Owings Mill, Maryland
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LEE, FITZHUGH

LEE, FITZHUGH
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Fitzhugh Lee, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Escort Carrier U.S.S. MANILA BAY (CVE-62), in action against the enemy on 5 January 1945, while deployed in the Philippine Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: August 19, 1905 at Batanhgas, Philippine Islands
Home Town: Owings Mill, Maryland
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

*LEE, JAMES LUTHER, JR.

*LEE, JAMES LUTHER, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to James Luther Lee, Jr., Pharmacist's Mate Third Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving as a Medical Corpsman with the Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division, during action against enemy forces at Piva Forks, Bougainville, Solomon Islands on 21 November 1943. Pharmacist's Mate Third Class Lee disregarded warnings that he faced certain death and braved heavy fire in an attempt to reach an injured Marine. Struck by bullets almost immediately, he dragged himself to the side of the wounded man and was administering first aid when both he and his patient were killed by machine-gun fire. By his courage and efforts in behalf of others at great risk to his own life, Pharmacist's Mate Third Class Lee undoubtedly saved many lives, and his steadfast devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 328 (July 1944)
Born: September 8, 1924 at Fiskville, Texas
Home Town: Round Rock, Texas

LEE, JAMES RICHARD

LEE, JAMES RICHARD
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to James Richard Lee, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane in Scouting Squadron TEN (VS-10), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Solomon Islands Area during the period 13 to 15 November 1942. Lieutenant Commander Lee lead his scouting squadron against heavy Japanese cruiser and transport forces, launching numerous daring attacks against the enemy, inflicting great losses in ships and men. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 316 (July 1943)
Born: December 1, 1905 at Greensboro, North Carolina
Home Town: Washington, D.C.

LEE, JOHN E.

LEE, JOHN E.
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John E. Lee, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. GRAYLING (SS-209), on the FOURTH, FIFTH and SIXTH War Patrols of that submarine during the period 19 October 1942 to 25 April 1943, in enemy controlled waters of the Southwest Pacific. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Lee brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: September 20, 1908 at Wilmington, Delaware
Home Town: San Diego, California
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LEE, JOHN E.

LEE, JOHN E.
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to John E. Lee, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. CROAKER (SS-246), on the FIRST War Patrol of that submarine during the period 19 July 1944 to 31 August 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the East China Sea. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Lee brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: September 20, 1908 at Wilmington, Delaware
Home Town: San Diego, California
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LEE, JOHN E.

LEE, JOHN E.
(Third Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Navy Cross to John E. Lee, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. CROAKER (SS-246), on the SECOND War Patrol of that submarine during the period 23 September 1944 to 10 November 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the East China Sea. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Lee brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: September 20, 1908 at Wilmington, Delaware
Home Town: San Diego, California
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LEE, JOHN MARSHALL

LEE, JOHN MARSHALL
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John Marshall Lee, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as a Navigator embarked from the Light Cruiser U.S.S. BOISE (CL-47), in action on the night of 11 and 12 October 1942, while deployed over Cape Esperance in the Solomon Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: October 14, 1914 at Presidio, California
Home Town: Washington, D.C.

*LEE, WILLIS A., JR.

*LEE, WILLIS A., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Willis A. Lee, Jr., Rear Admiral, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander, Combat Division SIX, during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island on the night of 14 - 15 November, 1942. Rear Admiral Lee sought out and engaged an overwhelmingly powerful foe and in the furious battle that followed destroyed at least one Japanese battleship, three cruisers, and one destroyer; damaging several others, and turning back the remainder of the enemy fleet, thereby frustrating a formidable Japanese offensive. Rear Admiral Lee's inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 315 (June 1943)
Born: March 11, 1888 at Natlee, Kentucky
Home Town: Rock Island, Illinois

LEEDOM, MARVIN LEROY

LEEDOM, MARVIN LEROY
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Marvin Leroy Leedom, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron TWENTY (VT-20), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Philippine Islands during the Battle for Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. Undaunted by intense enemy antiaircraft fire, Lieutenant Leedom pressed home vigorous attacks upon an enemy battleship to score a direct hit upon the hostile vessel and inflict severe damage. His courage, expert airmanship and unwavering devotion to duty contributed to the success of his squadron in fulfilling this dangerous mission and reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.

LEEKER, WALLACE F.

LEEKER, WALLACE F.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Wallace F. Leeker, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron NINETEEN (VT-19) embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), while assigned to strike major Japanese Fleet Units on 25 October 1944, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, in the Philippine Islands. Courageous and skillful in the face of enemy air opposition and extremely intense and continuous fire from hostile anti-aircraft batteries, he boldly pressed home his attack. By his superb airmanship, daring combat tactics and courage maintained in the face of tremendous opposition, Ensign Leeker contributed materially to the infliction of extensive damage and destruction on the Japanese Fleet in this decisive battle, and his gallant devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: May 2, 1921 at St. Louis, Missouri
Home Town: St. Louis, Missouri

LEEPER, CHARLES DAVID

LEEPER, CHARLES DAVID
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Charles David Leeper, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron TWENTY (VT-20), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Philippine Islands during the Battle for Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. Undaunted by intense enemy antiaircraft fire, Ensign Leeper pressed home vigorous attacks upon an enemy carrier, scoring a direct hit upon the hostile vessel and rendering valiant assistance in sinking a major unit of the Japanese Fleet. His courage, expert airmanship and unwavering devotion to duty contributed to the success of his squadron in fulfilling this dangerous mission and reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.
Born: July 4, 1942 at St. Paul, Minnesota
Home Town: Parkersburg, West Virginia

LEGG, JAMES C.

LEGG, JAMES C.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to James C. Legg, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Minesweeper U.S.S. VIERO (AM-52), during its heroic efforts at salvaging the U.S.S. YORKTOWN during the Battle of Midway on 6 June 1942. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.

*LEHARDY, LOUIS M. (MIA)

*LEHARDY, LOUIS M. (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Louis M. LeHardy, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Communications Officer on board the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO (CA-38), during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island on the night of 12 - 13 November, 1942. On this occasion the force to which Lieutenant Commander LeHardy was attached engaged at close quarters and defeated a superior enemy force, inflicting heavy damage upon them and preventing the accomplishment of their intended mission. This daring and intrepid attack, brilliantly executed, led to a great victory for his country's forces. By his indomitable fighting spirit, expert seamanship, and gallant devotion to duty, Lieutenant Commander LeHardy contributed largely to the success of the battle and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 312 (March 1943)
Born: February 18, 1905 at Savannah, Georgia
Home Town: Coronado, California

*LEMMON, ROLLA STUART

*LEMMON, ROLLA STUART
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Rolla Stuart Lemmon, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron THREE (VF3), embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2), in action against enemy forces in the Pacific War Area when his ship was attacked by eighteen Japanese bombing planes on 20 February 1942. In the face of heavy antiaircraft fire, Lieutenant Lemmon intercepted a formation of nine enemy aircraft and succeeded in shooting down one twin-engine bomber and aided in shooting down another. Lieutenant Lemmon's outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: November 28, 1915 at Peru, Kansas
Home Town: Long Beach, California

LENT, WILLIS A.

LENT, WILLIS A.
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Willis A. Lent, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TRITON (SS-201), on the SECOND War Patrol of that submarine during the period 25 January 1942 to 17 March 1942, in enemy controlled waters of the East China Sea. Lieutenant Commander Willis A. Lent took his ship on an aggressive patrol against the enemy in hazardous waters. Despite Japanese air search he sank thousands of tons of Japanese shipping, also returning to base without damage to his submarine or personnel. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: January 5, 1904 at Dorchester, Massachusetts
Home Town: West Roxbury, Massachusetts
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LENT, WILLIS A.

LENT, WILLIS A.
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Willis A. Lent, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. GRENADIER (SS-210), on the SECOND and THIRD War Patrols of that submarine during the period 12 April 1942 to 10 June 1942, in enemy controlled waters of the Pacific War Area. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Lent brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: January 5, 1904 at Dorchester, Massachusetts
Home Town: West Roxbury, Massachusetts
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LEONARD, WILLIAM NICHOLAS

LEONARD, WILLIAM NICHOLAS
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William Nicholas Leonard, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane of Fighting Squadron FORTY-TWO (VF-42), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in action against the Japanese on 4 and 8 May 1942. On 4 May, while leader of a four-plane division engaged in protecting our own forces attacking Tulagi Harbor, he led his division in four successive strafing attacks against an enemy destroyer and, in the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire, succeeded in inflicting serious damage on the enemy vessel. On the same occasion he led his section in a determined attack against three enemy seaplane fighters, destroying two of them and assisting in the destruction of the third. On 8 May, while leader of the fighter escort for our own torpedo planes in an attack against an enemy carrier in the Coral Sea, he aggressively engaged the enemy fighter opposition, skillfully assisting in the destruction of two of the enemy planes. None of our torpedo planes were damaged during this attack which resulted in the sinking or severe damaging of the carrier. While returning from this mission he encountered an enemy torpedo plane returning to its carrier. He led his section in an attack against this plane and assisted in the prompt destruction of the enemy aircraft. Throughout these engagements Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Leonard displayed outstanding leadership, aggressiveness and judgment. His conduct was always unusually courageous and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Naval Service.
Born: January 12, 1916 at Douglas, Arizona
Home Town: St. Petersburg, Florida
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LEONARD, WILLIAM NICHOLAS

LEONARD, WILLIAM NICHOLAS
(Second Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to William Nicholas Leonard, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while piloting an airplane of Fighting Squadron THREE (VF-3), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in action against enemy Japanese forces on 4 June 1942, during the "Air Battle of Midway,". Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Leonard was launched from his carrier to intercept an incoming attack by Japanese torpedo planes. He had been in the air only a few seconds when the enemy planes started their runs prior to dropping t heir torpedoes. With great skill, courage and determination, and despite the heavy anti-aircraft fire from his own ships, he pressed home repeated attacks against the enemy planes shooting down one and damaging another. His courage, determination and utter disregard for personal safety were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Naval Service.
Born: January 12, 1916 at Douglas, Arizona
Home Town: St. Petersburg, Florida
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LEONARD, WILLIAM RICHARD, JR.

LEONARD, WILLIAM RICHARD, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to William Richard Leonard, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Torpedo Plane and Strike Leader in Torpedo Squadron SIXTEEN (VT-16), attached to the U.S.S. RANDOLPH, in action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of the Inland Sea, 24 July 1945. Fearlessly disregarding intense enemy antiaircraft fire, Lieutenant Commander Leonard led a flight of torpedo, dive and fighter-bombers in an attack on a hostile battleship-carrier, personally scoring a direct hit and two near misses which contributed materially to the ultimate sinking of the enemy capital ship. His expert airmanship, courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: April 25, 1916 at Seattle, Washington

LEPPLA, JOHN ARTHUR

LEPPLA, JOHN ARTHUR
(First Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John Arthur Leppla, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane in Scouting Squadron TWO (VS-2), embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2), in action against enemy Japanese forces over enemy-controlled waters near Lae and Salamaua, New Guinea on 10 March 1942. Ensign Leppla pressed home, in the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire, a vigorous and determined dive bombing attack on enemy ships, sinking three of them. His outstanding courage, daring airmanship and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: May 7, 1916 at Lima, Ohio
Home Town: Lima, Ohio
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LEPPLA, JOHN ARTHUR

LEPPLA, JOHN ARTHUR
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to John Arthur Leppla, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane of Scouting Squadron TWO (VS-2), embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2), in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Air Battle of the Coral Sea on 7 and 8 May 1942. His outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: May 7, 1916 at Lima, Ohio
Home Town: Lima, Ohio
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LERCH, ALFRED

LERCH, ALFRED
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Alfred Lerch, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron TEN (VF-10), embarked from the U.S.S. INTREPID (CV-11), in action on 16 April 1945, while deployed over Okinawa in the Ryukyu Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

LESLIE, JOHN CARLETON

LESLIE, JOHN CARLETON
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John Carleton Leslie, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane embarked from the U.S.S. BENNINGTON (CV-20), in action on 28 July 1945, while deployed over Kure Harbor, 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.

LESLIE, MAXWELL FRANKLIN

LESLIE, MAXWELL FRANKLIN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Maxwell Franklin Leslie, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Bomber and Commanding Officer of Bombing Squadron THREE (VB-3), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 June 1942. Lieutenant Leslie led his squadron in a vigorous dive-bombing assault against Japanese naval units, in the face of concentrated antiaircraft fire and powerful fighter opposition, and pressed home his attack with courageous aggressiveness and utter disregard for his own personal safety. His capable initiative and inspiring leadership contributed to the high state of combat efficiency which enabled his squadron to score at least five direct hits on an enemy aircraft carrier. Lieutenant Commander Leslie's inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 311 (February 1943)
Born: October 24, 1902 at Spokane, Washington
Home Town: Spokane, Washington

LEWELLEN, BAFFORD EDWARD

LEWELLEN, BAFFORD EDWARD
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Bafford Edward Lewellen, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. POLLACK (SS-180), on the NINTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 28 February 1944 to 11 April 1944, in enemy controlled waters in the Bonin Islands area. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Lewellen brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: September 22, 1909 at Florence, Alabama
Home Town: Savannah, Missouri
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LEWELLEN, BAFFORD EDWARD

LEWELLEN, BAFFORD EDWARD
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Bafford Edward Lewellen, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. TORSK (SS-423), on the SECOND War Patrol of that submarine during the period 17 July 1945 to 15 August 1945, in enemy controlled waters in the Sea of Japan. On this mission three enemy ships totaling 2,473 tons were sunk, and the U.S.S. TORSK had the distinction of firing the last torpedo and sinking the last Japanese combat ships of World War II. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Lewellen brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: September 22, 1909 at Florence, Alabama
Home Town: Savannah, Missouri
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LEWIS, DONALD

LEWIS, DONALD
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Donald Lewis, 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 TEN (VB-10), attached to the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), in action against enemy Japanese forces west of the Marianas Islands, during the First Battle of the Philippine Sea, on 20 June 1944. Participating in a daring strike against the main Japanese Fleet, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Lewis selected an enemy aircraft carrier as his target and, skillfully maneuvering his plane to evade fierce enemy fighter opposition, executed a dive-bombing attack on the enemy vessel and scored a direct hit, thereby severely damaging the hostile ship. By his brilliant airmanship, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty, Lieutenant Lewis contributed materially to the success of our operations in this historic engagement, and his great personal valor in the face of grave peril was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: February 17, 1917 at New York, New York
Home Town: Haworth, New Jersey

*LEWIS, VICTOR ALAN (

*LEWIS, VICTOR ALAN (MIA)

*LEWIS, VICTOR ALAN (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Victor Alan Lewis (0-106252), Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron EIGHT (VT-8), embarked from Naval Air Station Midway during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 and 5 June 1942. In the first attack against an enemy carrier of the Japanese invasion fleet, Ensign Lewis pressed home his attack in the face of withering fire from enemy Japanese fighters and anti-aircraft forces. Because of events attendant upon the Battle of Midway, there can be no doubt that he gallantly gave up his life in the service of his country. His courage and utter disregard for his own personal safety were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 313 (April 1943)
Born: August 2, 1919 at Somerville, Massachusetts
Home Town: Randolph, Massachusetts

LEY, FREDERICK C., JR.

LEY, FREDERICK C., JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Frederick C. Ley, Jr., Fireman Second Class, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for exceptional courage, presence of mind, and devotion to duty and disregard for his personal safety while serving on board the Hospital Ship U.S.S. SOLACE (AH-5), during the Japanese attack on the United States Pacific Fleet in Pearl Harbor, Territory of Hawaii, on 7 December 1941. When his boat was sent alongside the blazing U.S.S. ARIZONA, Fireman Second Class Ley displayed unusual disregard of his own life in diving overboard into water on which there was a great amount of burning oil, to save an officer from drowning. The conduct of Fireman Second Class Ley throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: November 16, 1917 at New Haven, Connecticut
Home Town: Stratford, Connecticut

LIGHTNER, EARL FRED

LIGHTNER, EARL FRED
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Earl Fred Lightner, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron FIFTEEN (VT-15, embarked from the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against enemy Japanese surface forces over the Sibuyan Sea during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands on 24 October 1944. In the face of intense and accurate antiaircraft fire from the whole enemy formation, under extremely hazardous combat conditions, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Lightner participated in a bombing attack on a Japanese cruiser. Fearlessly maneuvering through withering hostile fire of all calibers, he pressed home his attack and, by his expert airmanship, obtained a direct hit which caused certain damage. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 338 (May 1945)
Born: July 11, 1919 at New York, New York
Home Town: San Diego, California

LINDSAY, ELVIN LESTER

LINDSAY, ELVIN LESTER
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Elvin Lester Lindsay, Commander [then Lieutenant], U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane and Flight Leader in Fighting Squadron NINETEEN (VF-19) embarked from the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), while assigned to strike major Japanese Fleet Units on 25 October 1944, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, in the Philippine Islands. Skillfully directing his escort group on a strike against major enemy surface units, Lieutenant Commander Lindsay boldly dived through the intense barrage of hostile antiaircraft fire and expertly maneuvered his plane to deliver a bombing and strafing attack upon a Japanese aircraft carrier, leaving her burning and in a sinking condition. During the ensuing action, he valiantly led his fighters through antiaircraft fire to deliver' a strafing raid upon a light cruiser. By his brilliant airmanship, indomitable courage and inspiring leadership, Lieutenant Commander Lindsay contributed materially to the infliction of overwhelming damage upon the Japanese Fleet during this Battle. Commander Lindsay's outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: June 25, 1920 at Potlatch, Idaho
Home Town: Palouse, Washington

*LINDSEY, EUGENE ELBERT (MIA)

*LINDSEY, EUGENE ELBERT (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Eugene Elbert Lindsey (0-061684), Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane and Squadron Commander of Torpedo Squadron SIX (VT-6), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 June 1942. Participating in a vigorous and intensive assault against the Japanese invasion fleet, Lieutenant Commander Lindsey pressed home his attack with relentless determination in the face of a terrific barrage of anti-aircraft fire. The unprecedented conditions under which his squadron launched its offensive were so exceptional that it is highly improbably the occasion may ever recur where other pilots of the service will be called upon to demonstrate an equal degree of gallantry and fortitude. His extreme disregard of personal safety contributed materially to the success of our forces and his loyal conduct was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 309 (December 1942)
Born: July 2, 1905 at Sprague, Washington
Home Town: Honolulu, Hawaii

LINDSTROM, ROSS ALFRED

LINDSTROM, ROSS ALFRED
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Ross Alfred Lindstrom, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Composite Squadron EIGHTY-ONE (VC-81), embarked from the U.S.S. NATOMA BAY (CVE-62), while engaging a strong enemy Japanese Fleet in the Battle of Samar Island off the east coast of the Philippine Islands on 25 October 1944. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Lindstrom carried out an unsupported torpedo attack against one of a group of enemy heavy cruisers, in company with two other Torpedo Planes in the face of withering antiaircraft fire from the hostile warships. The attack of these planes inflicted serious damage on the leading cruiser at a time when their shell fire was inflicting heavy damage on our escort carriers. His personal heroism and devotion to duty contributed to the saving of our ships from further serious damage and his conduct throughout the attack was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: October 22, 1920 at Pocatello, Idaho
Home Town: Briartown, Oklahoma

LINE, JOHN HERMAN

LINE, JOHN HERMAN
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John Herman Line, Gunner's Mate Second Class, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action against the enemy while serving as a member of Naval Combat Demolition Unit TWENTY-TWO (NCDU-22), during the amphibious assault on the Normandy Coast of France on 6 June 1944. Gunner's Mate Second Class Line's Combat Demolitions Unit's mission was to land on the beach at H-hour-plus-3-minutes minutes and blow a fifty yard gap in the enemy-placed obstacles on the beach. Although half of the crew were killed before their mission was completed, Gunner's Mate Second Class Line with surviving members carried on and successfully completed their mission in the face of heavy enemy gunfire. After successfully completing this mission, Gunner's Mate Second Class Line directed incoming craft through the gap which had been blown. He exposed himself on numerous occasions while administering to and removing wounded personnel to places of safety. His display of courage and devotion to duty on this occasion reflects the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 334 (January 1945)
Born: April 22, 1918 at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
Home Town: Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

LINN, JACK BION

LINN, JACK BION
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Jack Bion Linn, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Plane, in action on 24 October 1944, during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

LINSDAY, BRUCE ALBERT

LINSDAY, BRUCE ALBERT
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Bruce Albert Linsday, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane deployed over Samar in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, on 25 October 1944, in the Philippine Islands. Lieutenant Linsday's outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: December 7, 1920 at Concord, Michigan
Home Town: Romeo, Michigan

LITTLE, EDWIN C.

LITTLE, EDWIN C.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Edwin C. Little, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron SIXTEEN (VT-16), attached to the U.S.S. RANDOLPH, in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Inland Sea on 24 July 1945. Pressing home an aggressive attack against a hostile battleship-carrier in the Kure Naval Base, Lieutenant Little succeeded in scoring a direct hit and near misses despite intense and accurate antiaircraft fire, thereby contributing materially to the destruction of the hostile vessel. His skillful airmanship and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

LITTLEFIELD, JACK

LITTLEFIELD, JACK
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Jack Littlefield, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron EIGHTY-SEVEN (VT-87), embarked from the U.S.S. TICONDEROGA (CV-14), in action on 24 July 1945, while 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.

*LIVESDAY, MELVIN G.

*LIVEZEY, JOHN C.

*LIVEZEY, JOHN C.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to John C. Livezey, Gunner, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron FIVE (VT-5), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in action against enemy Japanese forces at Tulagi Harbor on 4 May 1942, and in the Battle of the Coral Sea on 7 and 8 May 1942. Gunner Livezey's spirit of determination and persistence while participating in attacks, vigorously and persistently pressed home in the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire, and on 8 May opposed also by enemy fighters, resulted in the sinking of one enemy carrier and the sinking or damaging of another carrier and at least eight other enemy vessels. Gunner Livezey's conscientious devotion to duty and gallant self-command against formidable odds were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 311 (February 1943)
Born: February 12, 1909 at New Castle, Indiana
Home Town: Leonia, New Jersey

LIVINGSTON, JAMES HAROLD

LIVINGSTON, JAMES HAROLD
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to James Harold Livingston, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Plane, in action on 26 October 1944, while deployed over the Sulu Sea during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: August 11, 1922 at Marble Rock, Indiana
Home Town: Monroe, Michigan

LLOYD, RUDOLPH

LLOYD, RUDOLPH
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Rudolph Lloyd, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Commander of a Navy PBY Patrol Plane in Patrol Squadron FIFTY-TWO (VP-52), in action against the enemy on 10 and 14 December 1943 in the Solomon Islands. On 10 December, despite adverse weather conditions, Lieutenant (j.g.) Lloyd led his crew in a dangerous night attack against a large enemy freighter in the Bismarck Archipelago. After dropping his bombs on target, he returned and made strafing attacks until the enemy ship sank. On 14 December he again, in the face of adverse and dangerous weather conditions, led his Bomber in a night attack against Japanese ships in Kavieng Harbor, during which a bombing run was made on what appeared to be a small enemy cruiser or large destroyer, during which two hits were observed on the Japanese ship. Returning o make a strafing run, Lieutenant (j.g.) Lloyd was forced by intense antiaircraft fire and enemy fighters to break off the attack and return to base. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: August 8, 1909 at Roanoke, Virginia
Home Town: Pensacola, Florida

*LLOYD, WILLIAM REES

*LLOYD, WILLIAM REES
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to William Rees Lloyd, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession, in action against the enemy on 5 and 6 May 1942, at Corregidor in the Philippine Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.

LOCKE, CHARLES R.

LOCKE, CHARLES R.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Charles R. Locke, Lieutenant, Junior Grade (MC), U.S. Navy, for distinguished service in the line of his profession, extraordinary courage, and disregard of personal danger while serving as Medical Officer with the FOURTH Marine Division, at Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands, on 20 February 1945. By his courage, determination, and untiring devotion to duty, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Locke saved many lives from certain death. His professional ability, courage, and inspiring devotion to duty upheld the highest traditions of the Medical Corps and the United States Naval Service.

LOCKE, CHESTER M.

LOCKE, CHESTER M.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Chester M. Locke, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of this profession as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. HAZELWOOD (DD-531), in operations against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Okinawa on 29 April 1945. When a suicide plane demolished the superstructure and severely damaged the forward fire room, emergency diesel room and I.C. room on his vessel, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Locke immediately assumed command of the stricken ship and, braving exploding ammunition and fires, valiantly directed salvage operation, thereby saving the Hazelwood from certain destruction. His direct actions, resourceful leadership and determined devotion to duty upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: at Lockeford, California
Home Town: Lodi, California

LODHOLZ, ROYCE P.

LODHOLZ, ROYCE P.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Royce P. Lodholz, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane in Composite Squadron SEVENTY-SIX (VC-76), embarked from the U.S.S. PETROF BAY (CVE-80), and deployed over Samar in the Philippine Islands, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Air Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. Ensign Lodholz boldly attacked a large task force of the Japanese Imperial Navy in a strike made without the aid of surface craft and in the face of an intense barrage of anti-aircraft fire and with the knowledge that his fuel supply was insufficient to carry him safely back to base. He drove home his attack with such grim determination and utter disregard for his personal safety that it resulted in severe damage upon capital ships of the Japanese Imperial Navy, and materially contributed to the retreat of the enemy fleet. Ensign Lodholz' outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 340 (July 1945)
Born: June 5, 1924 at Munising, Michigan
Home Town: Negaunee, Michigan

*LOGAN, SAMUEL MOORE (MIA)

*LOGAN, SAMUEL MOORE (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Samuel Moore Logan (0-111646), Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving on board the U.S.S. HARDER (SS-257), on the FOURTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 29 March 1944 to 20 April 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the Pacific Area. On 1 April 1944, during that war patrol, Lieutenant Logan unhesitatingly volunteered to lead a rescue team dispatched from the HARDER to an enemy held island to rescue a naval aviator whose plane had been shot down. Although fully aware that unforeseen circumstance might result in the forced abandonment of the entire party, Lieutenant Logan courageously fought his way through the breakers and a coral reef despite dangerous hostile sniper fire and locating the exhausted aviator, succeeded in bringing him back to HARDER. His conduct throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 338 (May 1945)
Born: November 27, 1918 at Owensboro, Kentucky
Home Town: Owensboro, Kentucky

LONG, GEORGE L.

LONG, GEORGE L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to George L. Long, Pharmacist's Mate Third Class, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and conspicuous devotion to duty while serving as a Medical Corpsman with the FIFTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces at Iwo Jima in the Volcano islands, on 26 February 1945. By his courage and efforts in behalf of others at great risk to his own life, Pharmacist's Mate Third Class Long undoubtedly saved many lives, and his steadfast devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

LOONEY, FOSTER E.

LOONEY, FOSTER E.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Foster E. Looney, Ensign, 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 TWO (VB-2), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-12), in action against the enemy fleet in the vicinity of the East Philippine Sea on 20 June 1944. By his brilliant airmanship, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty, Ensign Looney contributed materially to the success of our operations in this historic engagement, and his great personal valor in the face of grave peril was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: November 29, 1922 at Fort Worth, Texas
Home Town: Fort Worth, Texas

LOONEY, MILTON PARKER

LOONEY, MILTON PARKER
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Milton Parker Looney, Fire Controlman Second Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action against the enemy while serving on board the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. NORTHAMPTON (CA-26), after the torpedoing of his ship in enemy-controlled waters during the Battle of Tassafaronga on the night of 30 November 1942. Organizing and directing a section of men for fighting the flames, Fire Controlman Second Class Looney labored tirelessly in the midst of exploding ammunition and in immediate proximity to the blaze until he had the fire on the boat deck under control. When the water supply eventually failed, he was attracted by cries of distress from a wounded shipmate in the mainmast and, while attempting to reach him by means of a line-throwing gun, was injured by a shell fragment which lodged in his arm. The conduct of Fire Controlman Second Class Looney throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 316 (July 1943)
Born: October 23, 1920 at Branchville, Texas
Home Town: Bryan, Texas

LORENZ, EDWARD GEORGE

LORENZ, EDWARD GEORGE
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Edward George Lorenz (301497), Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in action in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber, in action on 18 July 1945, during an attack against an enemy battleship in the Tokyo Bay Area. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Lorenz skillfully and courageously pressed his attack home in the face of intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire scoring a hit on the target which contributed materially to the severe damage suffered by the warship. His skill and courage were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Com2ndCarTaskForPac File C2CTF/P15/814, Serial 01863 (18 September 1945)
Born: February 11, 1924 at Bowman, North Dakota
Home Town: Bowman, North Dakota
Awards: Navy Cross (WWII), 2@ Air Medals

LORENZ, JOHN D.

LORENZ, JOHN D.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John D. Lorenz, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Battery Officer on board the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Battle of Midway on 6 June 1942. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Born: January 4, 1919 at Butte, Montana
Home Town: Gervais, Oregon

*LOUD, WAYNE R.

*LOUD, WAYNE R.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Wayne R. Loud, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commander, Task Group 77.6, in action against the enemy from 3 through 9 January 1945, at Lingayen Gulf in the Philippine Islands. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.

*LOUGH, JOHN CADY (MIA)

*LOUGH, JOHN CADY (MIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to John Cady Lough (0-099984), Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane of Scouting Squadron SIX (VS-6), embarked from the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 4 - 6 June 1942. Participating in a devastating assault against a Japanese invasion fleet, Ensign Lough, with fortitude and resolute devotion to duty, pressed home his attacks in the face of a formidable barrage of anti-aircraft fire and fierce fighter opposition. His gallant perseverance and utter disregard for his own personal safety were important contributing factors to the success achieved by our forces and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 309 (December 1942)
Born: November 22, 1915 at Geneseo, Illinois
Home Town: Geneseo, Illinois

LOUGHLIN, CHARLES ELLIOTT

LOUGHLIN, CHARLES ELLIOTT
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Charles Elliott Loughlin, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. QUEENFISH (SS-393), on the FIRST War Patrol of that submarine during the period 4 August 1944 to 3 October 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the Luzon Strait, in the Philippine Islands. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Loughlin brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: February 19, 1910 at Wilmington, North Carolina
Home Town: North Wales, Pennsylvania
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LOUGHLIN, CHARLES ELLIOTT

LOUGHLIN, CHARLES ELLIOTT
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Charles Elliott Loughlin, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. QUEENFISH (SS-393), on the SECOND War Patrol of that submarine during the period 4 August 1944 to 3 October 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the East China Sea. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Loughlin brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: February 19, 1910 at Wilmington, North Carolina
Home Town: North Wales, Pennsylvania
Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LOVERIN, IRA G.

LOVERIN, IRA G.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Ira G. Loverin, Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Combat Plane in Composite Squadron SEVENTY-SIX (VC-76), embarked from the U.S.S. PETROF BAY (CVE-80), and deployed over Samar in the Philippine Islands, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Air Battle of Leyte Gulf on 23 October 1944. Ensign Loverin participated in the first strike of the day on the enemy task force off the coast of Samar, and executed bold strafing attacks in the face of intense antiaircraft fire in a desperate attempt to render aid to our own CVEs which were being shelled by the Japanese ships. Although he knew that his .50 caliber guns could do little damage to the armor of the capital ships, he made his runs with courage and audacity. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 341 (August 1945)
Born: August 12, 1922 at Sanger, California
Home Town: Huntington Park, California

LOWE, EDWARD S.

LOWE, EDWARD S.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Edward S. Lowe, Lieutenant Commander (MC), U.S. Navy, for distinguished service in the line of his profession, extraordinary courage, and disregard of personal danger while serving as Senior Medical Officer on board the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO (CA-38), after that vessel was severely damaged during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island on the night of 12 - 13 November 1942. By his courage, determination, and untiring devotion to duty, Lieutenant Commander Lowe saved many lives. His professional ability, courage, and inspiring devotion to duty upheld the highest traditions of the Medical Corps and the United States Naval Service.
Born: May 23, 1906 at Colorado Springs, Colorado
Home Town: Costa Mesa, California

LOWE, FRANK L.

LOWE, FRANK L.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Frank L. Lowe, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. PENSACOLA (CA-24), during the action in enemy-controlled waters at the Battle of Tassafaronga on the night of 30 November 1942. Captain Lowe fought his ship with skill and determination, contributing in large measure to the destruction of all enemy vessels within gun range. His inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 319 (October 1943)
Born: April 17, 1891 at Monticello, Arkansas
Home Town: Pine Bluff, Arkansas

*LOWE, HARRY JAMES, JR.

*LOWE, HARRY JAMES, JR.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Harry James Lowe, Jr., Gunner's Mate Third Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action against the enemy while serving as a Gunner aboard the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO (CA-38), during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island in the Solomons on the night of on November 12 and 13 1942. His grim perseverance and relentless devotion to duty in the face of certain death were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave up his own life in the defense of his country.
Born: February 6, 1922 at Paducah, Kentucky
Home Town: Paducah, Kentucky

LOWRANCE, VERNON L.

LOWRANCE, VERNON L.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Vernon L. Lowrance, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. KINGFISH (SS-234), on a War Patrol of that submarine in enemy controlled waters of the Pacific War Area. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Lowrance brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: April 19, 1909 at Catawba, North Carolina
Home Town: New London, Connecticut

LOWRY, FRANK J.

LOWRY, FRANK J.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Frank J. Lowry, Captain, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. MINNEAPOLIS (CA-36), during operations in Coral Sea on 7 and 8 May 1942. Under Captain Lowry's skillful direction, his ship during this action inflicted considerable damage on the enemy Japanese and rendered vital protection to the aircraft carrier to which it was assigned. Captain Lowry's inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command contributed in large measure to the outstanding success of these vital missions and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 311 (February 1943)
Born: February 15, 1888 at Cresco, Iowa
Home Town: Cresco, Iowa

*LOY, JACKSON KIETH

*LOY, JACKSON KIETH
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Jackson Kieth Loy, Gunner's Mate Third Class, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action against the enemy while serving as a Gunner aboard the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO (CA-38), during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island in the Solomons on the night of on November 12 and 13 1942. His grim perseverance and relentless devotion to duty in the face of certain death were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave up his own life in the defense of his country.
Born: April 29, 1922 at Effingham, Illinois
Home Town: Effingham, Illinois

LUDWIG, DAVID W.

LUDWIG, DAVID W.
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to David W. Ludwig, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting-Bombing Squadron SIX (VFB-6), embarked from the U.S.S. HANCOCK (CV-19), in the attack on major units of the Japanese fleet in Kure Harbor, Japan, consisting of battleships, carriers and heavy cruisers, on 24 July 1945. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

LUEDMANN, CARL FREDERICK

LUEDMANN, CARL FREDERICK
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Carl Frederick Luedmann, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron ONE (VT-1), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-10), in action against the enemy fleet west of the Marianas Islands during the First Battle of the Philippine Sea on 20 June 1944. By his brilliant airmanship, aggressive fighting spirit and unwavering devotion to duty, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Luedmann contributed materially to the success of our operations in this historic engagement, and his great personal valor in the face of grave peril was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: June 11, 1919 at Indianapolis, Indiana
Home Town: Indianapolis, Indiana

LURVEY, DON DEXTER

LURVEY, DON DEXTER
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Don Dexter Lurvey, Aviation Chief Machinist's Mate, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Gunner of a Navy Patrol Plane in Patrol Squadron ONE HUNDRED ONE (VP-101), Patrol Wing TEN (PatWing-10), in action against enemy Japanese naval forces located near Jolo, in the Philippine Islands, on the morning of 27 December 1941. Aviation Machinist's Mate First Class Lurvey saved his co-pilot from drowning after their airplane crashed into the sea. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 304 (July 1942)
Born: July 13, 1908 at Draent Center, Massachusetts
Home Town: San Diego, California

LUTHER, EARL FRANCIS, JR.

LUTHER, EARL FRANCIS, JR.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Earl Francis Luther, Jr., Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scout Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron THIRTEEN (VB-13), embarked from the U.S.S. FRANKLIN (CV-13), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Sibuyan Sea during the Air Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. In the face of continuous and intense anti-aircraft fire and enemy air opposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Luther pressed home a determined dive bombing attack on a hostile aircraft carrier and, accurately releasing his bomb load at perilously low altitude, scored a direct hit which contributed to its sinking. By his superb flying ability, indomitable fighting spirit and cool courage, maintained at great personal risk, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Luther contributed immeasurably to the extensive and costly damage inflicted on the Japanese fleet in this vital war area. His conduct throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 338 (May 1945)
Born: June 25, 1921 at Warren, Rhode Island
Home Town: Warren, Rhode Island

LYNCH, FRANK C.

LYNCH, FRANK C.
(First Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Frank C. Lynch, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Executive Officer of the U.S.S. HARDER (SS-257), on the FIFTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 26 May 1944 to 21 June 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the Southwest Pacific. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Lynch helped bring his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: October 27, 1914 at Benedict, Kansas
Home Town: Benedict, Kansas
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LYNCH, FRANK C.

LYNCH, FRANK C.
(Second Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Frank C. Lynch, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. HADDO (SS-255), on the EIGHTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 28 October 1944 to 27 December 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the Pacific War Area. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Lynch brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: October 27, 1914 at Benedict, Kansas
Home Town: Benedict, Kansas
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LYNCH, FRANK C.

LYNCH, FRANK C.
(Third Award)
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Navy Cross to Frank C. Lynch, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. HADDO (SS-255), on the NINTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 16 May 1945 to 16 July 1945, in enemy controlled waters of the East China Sea. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Lynch brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: October 27, 1914 at Benedict, Kansas
Home Town: Benedict, Kansas
Awards: 3@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

LYNCH, JOHN JOSEPH

LYNCH, JOHN JOSEPH
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John Joseph Lynch, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron EIGHT (VB-8), embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-8), during the "Air Battle of Midway," against enemy Japanese forces on 6 June 1942. With utter disregard for his own personal safety and in the face of intense antiaircraft fire, Lieutenant Lynch participated in determined and effective bombing and strafing attacks on fleeing enemy Japanese forces, obtaining a successful hit on one of the enemy ships. 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. 316 (July 1943)
Born: October 21, 1911 at South Boston, Massachusetts
Home Town: Ferguson, Missouri

LYNCH, KEVIN PATRICK

LYNCH, KEVIN PATRICK
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Kevin Patrick Lynch, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier- based Navy Combat Plane deployed over Samar in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, on 25 October 1944, in the Philippine Islands. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Lynch's outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: January 25, 1922 at Dodgeville, Wisconsin
Home Town: New Glarus, Wisconsin

LYNCH, RICHARD BARR

LYNCH, RICHARD BARR
Synopsis:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Richard Barr Lynch, Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SKATE (SS-305), on the SEVENTH War Patrol of that submarine during the period 11 April 1945 to 4 July 1945, in enemy controlled waters in the Sea of Japan. Through his experience and sound judgment Commander Lynch brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

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