The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Commander (MC) John Bennett Rowe, United States Navy, for distinguished service in the line of his profession, extraordinary courage, and disregard of personal danger while serving as a Medical Officer of the Escort Carrier U.S.S. LISCOME BAY (CVE-56), when that vessel was sunk near Makin Island in the Gilbert Islands on 24 November 1943. When the U.S.S. LISCOME BAY was struck by a torpedo, Lieutenant Commander Rowe displayed great courage and zeal in treating and evacuating wounded personnel from the ship. After getting in the water he continued his efforts to save personnel, in one instance attempting artificial respiration. By his courage, determination, and untiring devotion to duty, Lieutenant Commander Rowe saved many lives from certain death. His professional ability, courage, and inspiring devotion to duty upheld the highest traditions of the Medical Corps and the United States Naval Service.