The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant John D. Pennington, United States Navy, for distinguished service in the line of his profession in Command of the U.S.S. Carola IV, and the Naval Barracks at Brest. Starting with nothing more than a mere building, Lieutenant Pennington, by his individual efficiency and energy fitted out these barracks, which he commanded until the expiration of the war. The efficient administration of his command was one of the most important aids to the efficiency and contentment of the Naval Forces in France.