The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Commander John Elwood Lee (NSN: 0-63331), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. GRAYLING (SS-209), on the FOURTH, FIFTH and SIXTH War Patrols of that submarine during the period 19 October 1942 to 25 April 1943, in enemy controlled waters of the Southwest Pacific. During this period of intense activity, Lieutenant Commander Lee distinguished himself by his brilliant tactical knowledge and sound judgment in maneuvering his vessel into advantageous striking positions so skillfully and aggressively as to destroy seven enemy ships, totaling 34,957 tons, and damaged an additional 27,500 tons, despite persistent and violent hostile counter measures. Through his excellent direction of these hazardous operations he enabled the GRAYLING to complete her vital missions successfully without sustaining serious damage. Lieutenant Commander Lee’s inspiring leadership and the valiant devotion to duty of his command under extremely adverse conditions contributed immeasurably to the efforts of our forces against a determined and desperate enemy and reflect great credit upon the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Captain [then Commander] John Elwood Lee (NSN: 0-63331), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. CROAKER (SS-246), on the FIRST War Patrol of that submarine during the period 19 July 1944 to 31 August 1944, in enemy controlled waters of the East China Sea. Penetrating enemy air and surface escort screens, Captain Lee maneuvered his ship into a favorable position to strike and launched bold torpedo attacks to sink an enemy light cruiser of 5,100 tons. Continuing his aggressive actions, he directed further torpedo attacks to sink three hostile ships, including a 10,000-ton tanker, for a total of 12,500 tons. Employing skillful evasive tactics during severe enemy countermeasures, he succeeded in bringing the CROAKER safely to port without serious injury to the ship or crew. Captain Lee’s devotion to duty and inspiring leadership reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.