Edmund Michael Burke

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Edmund Michael Burke, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving with the Office of Strategic Services during combat operations against enemy force in enemy-occupied territory from 9 September 1944 to 17 October 1944. Landing by parachute behind hostile lines in Haute-Saone Province, France, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Burke fearlessly led patriot recruits in three actions against an enemy force which was superior in number and fire power and, exercising courage and strategic ability, contributed materially to the capture of forty-eight hostile soldiers, the killing of a larger number of troops, the liberation of forty-three hostages and the capture of quantities of enemy material. In addition, he voluntarily carried out three exceptionally hazardous reconnaissance missions and repeatedly risked his life while crossing and re-crossing the enemy’s lines time after time to procure vital information of great value to the attacking United States Forces. His gallant conduct, initiative and devotion to duty throughout this hazardous mission reflects great credit upon Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Burke and the United States Naval Service.

Authority: Board Serial 0678 (May 9, 1949)