Franklin D. Buckley

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Franklin D. Buckley, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Executive Officer of the Minesweeper U.S.S. HERON (AM-10), during operations in Dutch East Indies on 31 December 1941. When the U.S.S. Heron was attacked by 15 hostile planes of various types, Lieutenant Buckley directed the fire of the anti-aircraft battery and succeeded in destroying one bomber, damaging at least one more, and disrupted the effectiveness of the enemy efforts. The conduct of Lieutenant Buckley 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. 303 (June 1942)