Leo E. Kennedy

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Leo E. Kennedy, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Commander of a Navy PB4Y Patrol Plane in Patrol-Bombing Squadron ONE HUNDRED NINE (VPB-109), in action on 27 May 1945 off the coast of Korea. In 90 minutes of furious combat Lieutenant Kennedy destroyed a 2,000 ton freighter and three smaller freighters, seriously damaged three others and a large motor schooner and later sank a destroyer. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.