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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Lawrence Clark French, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane and Commanding Officer of Torpedo Squadron THIRTEEN (VT-13), attached to the U.S.S. FRANKLIN (CV-13), during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Battle for Leyte Gulf, on 24 October 1944. Leading an attack against a large number of units of the Japanese Fleet in the face of intense anti-aircraft fire, Commander French skillfully scored a devastating direct hit on an enemy battleship. His tactical ability, cool determination and unswerving devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Commander French and the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    Fighting Squadron

    Regiment:

    Battle of Midway

    Action Date:

    June 4 – 6, 1942
    Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 312 (March 1943)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Lawrence Clark French, United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of a Fighter Plane in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Battle of Midway, on 6 June 1942. Participating in persistent bombing and strafing attacks against fleeing enemy forces, he calmly and courageously pressed home his attack to within perilously short range of his objective, despite tremendous anti-aircraft barrage. His stern fortitude and resolute devotion to the accomplishment of a vastly important mission contributed materially to the success obtained by our forces and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.