George Peter Brown

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to George Peter Brown (0-125605), Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane and Division Leader of a Flight of Torpedo Squadron TWENTY-FOUR (VT-24), embarked from the U.S.S. BELLEAU WOOD (CVL-24), n action against major units of the Japanese fleet west of the Marianas Islands during the first Battle of the Philippine Sea, on 20 June 1944. With great skill, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Brown maneuvered his division into position and led it down against an enemy carrier, launching his torpedo from close range to score a confirmed hit in the face of heavy, accurate anti-aircraft fire, which was concentrated upon him as leader, and which inflicted severe damage to his plane, forcing his crew to abandon him, and wounding him severely. His attack, in conjunction with others, resulted in the sinking of the enemy vessel. His determined leadership, and outstanding courage were an inspiring example and were at all times thoroughly in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Commander In Chief, Pacific Fleet: Serial 03949 (August 13, 1944)