Ralph Arnold Embree

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Ralph Arnold Embree, Lieutenant, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot and Acting Squadron Commander of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane in Scouting Squadron FORTY-ONE (VS-41), embarked from the U.S.S. RANGER (CV-4), during the occupation of French Morocco during the period 8 to 11 November 1942. Leading five flights of planes in vigorous dive-bombing raids against hostile warships and coastal defense batteries, Lieutenant Embree, courageously pressing home his attacks in the face of tremendous anti-aircraft fire and fierce fighter opposition, aided greatly in the infliction of severe damage upon the enemy. His outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 318 (September 1943)