Jack Armstrong Derby

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Jack Armstrong Derby, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber and Division Leader of Four Dive Bombers in Bombing Squadron EIGHTY-TWO (VB-82), embarked from the U.S.S. BENNINGTON (CV-20), in action against units of the enemy Japanese Fleet in the East China Sea near Kyushu, Japan, on 7 April 1945. Skillfully maneuvering his division during the initial strike despite intense anti-aircraft fire and adverse weather conditions, Lieutenant Derby pressed home a determined attack which contributed materially to the infliction of serious damage on a hostile cruiser. His professional ability and devotion to the completion of a perilous mission were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Commander, 1st Carrier Task Force, Pacific: Serial 0592 (July 4, 1945)