Edward Henry Allen

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Edward Henry Allen (0-070223), Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane and Executive Officer 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 May 1942. In the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire and fighter opposition, Lieutenant Allen led his division in a bold and persistent dive-bombing attack upon an enemy aircraft carrier, which contributed materially to the destruction of that vessel. His courageous conduct throughout this engagement was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Edward Henry Allen (0-070223), Lieutenant, 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 TWO (VS-2), 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. Lieutenant Allen engaged one of the enemy, and by skillful maneuvering, enabled his rear seat observer to shoot the enemy bomber down with one burst from his .30 caliber free machine gun. Lieutenant Allen’s outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty 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. 317 (August 1943)