John E. Lee

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to John E. Lee, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. CROAKER (SS-246), on the FIRST War Patrol of that submarine during the period 19 July 1944 to 31 August 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the East China Sea. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Lee brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Navy Cross to John E. Lee, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. CROAKER (SS-246), on the SECOND War Patrol of that submarine during the period 23 September 1944 to 10 November 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the East China Sea. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Lee brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John E. Lee, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. GRAYLING (SS-209), on the FOURTH, FIFTH and SIXTH War Patrols of that submarine during the period 19 October 1942 to 25 April 1943, in enemy controlled waters of the Southwest Pacific. Through his experience and sound judgment Lieutenant Commander Lee brought his ship safely back to port. His conduct throughout was an inspiration to his officers and men and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.