John N. Ammen, Jr.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to John N. Ammen, Jr. (0-99935), Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron FIVE (VB-5), embarked from the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in an attack on an enemy aircraft carrier during the Battle of the Coral Sea on 7 May 1942. This attack, pressed home in the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire, resulted in sinking of the carrier. Ensign Ammen’s gallant conduct greatly contributed to the success of our forces in the Battle of the Coral Sea. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Commander In Chief, Pacific Fleet: Serial 2050 (May 8, 1942)