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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Commander Sidney Jack Lawrence (NSN: 0-70013), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commanding Officer of a Navy Patrol Plane Squadron, during operations against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific Ocean Area from 24 October 1943 to 15 June 1944. A skillful and efficient leader, Commander Lawrence directed his squadron in providing outstanding rescue service during the Gilbert-Marshalls campaign. Serving with distinction throughout this period, he contributed materially to maintaining high morale in the aircraft striking units during these operations, thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander

    Batallion:

    Patrol Squadron

    Action Date:

    December 1943 – January 1944
    Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 367 (September 1947)

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Commander Sidney Jack Lawrence (NSN: 0-70013), United States Navy, was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of a Patrol plane over the Mariana Islands, from December 1943 to January 1944.

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander

    Division:

    Patrol Plane Squadron

    Action Date:

    January 12, 1944
    Pacific Fleet Board Awards: Serial 69 (July 24, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Sidney Jack Lawrence (NSN: 0-70013), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of a Patrol Plane Squadron during action against enemy Japanese forces at Jaluit Atoll, on 12 January 1944. When his plane was shot down by hostile anti-aircraft fire after a daring raid on the enemy-held base, Commander Lawrence expertly landed his plane at sea near the Japanese Atoll. By his efficient handling of successive emergency situations, capture was avoided, a storm was weathered and all personnel survived. His initiative and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Commander Lawrence and the United States Naval Service.