Stewart Bass

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Stewart Bass (0-31559), Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane, in action on 7 April 1945, in operations against major units of the Japanese fleet off Kyushu, Japan. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Bass participated in a difficult and daring attack which sank a Japanese light cruiser. Flying by instruments through a heavy overcast, he broke through the clouds only to be caught in a cone of intense anti-aircraft fire. Notwithstanding, he pressed home his attack to point-blank range and scored one of the five direct hits which caused the vessel to roll over and sink a minute later. While retiring, his plane was subjected to continued and intense anti-aircraft fire from the cruiser and an escorting destroyer, but by superior airmanship, he brought his plane and crew through unscathed. His skill, daring, and utter disregard for personal safety were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Commander, 1st Carrier Task Force, Pacific: Serial 0508 (June 26, 1945)