Charles E. Perkins

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Charles E. Perkins, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a Navy Patrol Plane in Patrol Wing FOUR in action on 4 June 1942, in the Aleutian Islands, Territory of Alaska. During operations against an enemy Japanese fleet south of Umnak island, in an isolated flight and without the assistance of fighter support, Lieutenant Commander Perkins succeeded in gaining contact with a powerful force of enemy Japanese carriers, cruisers, and destroyers. Boldly maintaining this contact while subjected to enemy antiaircraft fire, he transmitted vital information and signaled directions to guide our striking forces to the enemy. Subsequently, he repeatedly engaged in bombing enemy concentrations in Kiska Harbor against intense and accurate antiaircraft fire. 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. 311 (February 1943)