The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Edward Charles Myers, Jr. (NSN: 0-264238), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron NINETEEN (VT-19) attached to the U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16), in action against the enemy Japanese forces on 25 October 1944, during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, in the Philippine Islands. Participating in a vigorous strike against major units of the Japanese Fleet, including aircraft carriers, battleships, cruisers and destroyers, Lieutenant, Junior Grade Myers gallantly plunged through the enemy’s heavy barrage of extremely intense anti-aircraft fire and expertly maneuvered his plane to release his torpedo at close range upon an aircraft carrier, contributing materially to its ultimate sinking. By his brilliant airmanship, indomitable courage and daring tactics, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Myers rendered invaluable service in the infliction of extensive damage upon the Japanese forces during the Battle. His dauntless fighting spirit and unswerving devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.