The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Coxswain Edward E. Cowden, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty during the bombing and loss of the U.S.S. PANAY (PR-5), when that vessel was attacked by Japanese airplanes during patrol in the Yangtze River, China, on 12 December 1937. Under the most difficult and hazardous conditions, Coxswain Cowden voluntarily acted as coxswain of a motor sampan which made all trips with the wounded while abandoning ship, exposing himself to many attacks from hostile planes. He then assisted in transporting them overland for six miles to a hospital. The conduct of Coxswain Cowden throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.