Fitzhugh LEE Palmer, Jr.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Fitzhugh Lee Palmer, Jr., Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane and Tactical Leader of Escort Fighting Squadron TWENTY-SIX (VF-26), attached to the U.S.S. SANGAMON (ACV-26), during the assault on and occupation of French Morocco, November 8 – 11, 1942. Pressing home audacious low-altitude attacks in the face of intense anti-aircraft fire, Lieutenant Palmer, on the morning of 8 November led his squadron in daring raids against enemy anti-aircraft installations and hostile aircraft both on the ground and in the air and, by his courage and skill, personally sent one bomber down in flames. Later, while attacking hostile ground forces, his plane was hit and severely damaged by enemy fire, but, despite the consequent operational difficulties, he persevered in maintaining control of the aircraft until a safe landing had been made on board his carrier. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.