Joseph Behl

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Joseph Behl (0-379052), Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Bomber embarked from the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-12), in the attack on major units of the enemy fleet in the Kure Bay area of Honshu, Japan, on 19 March 1945. In the face of extremely intense anti-aircraft fire, Ensign Behl piloted his plane in a glide bombing attack on an enemy aircraft carrier scoring two direct hits with his bombs. His skill and courage were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Navy.

Commander, 1st Carrier Task Force, Pacific: Serial 0526 (May 4, 1945)