Jack Pershing Brown

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Jack Pershing Brown (2954073), Chief Electrician’s Mate, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as Switchboard Operator in the Forward Distribution Room aboard the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-2), in action following the attack on that carrier during the Battle of the Coral Sea on 8 May 1942. Assisting in the evacuation of wounded, Chief Electrician’s Mate Brown disregarded a head injury sustained from an explosion and carried on in the face of subsequent danger of total asphyxiation. Obtaining a spare gas mask and returning to his post, he was successful in the removal of two of his wounded shipmates to safety. His courageous conduct and strict devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Commander In Chief, Pacific Fleet: Serial 2828 (June 29, 1942)