The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Fireman First Class John L. Hodge, 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. Fireman First Class Hodge displayed great coolness under fire while helping the Captain of the S.S. Mei Ping to get the underway and alongside a dock during the attack. Though wounded in this action, he assisted in extinguishing a fire caused by the first bombing, thereby temporarily saving the ship. Salvaging a first aid kit, he then rendered first aid to many wounded Americans and Chinese. The conduct of Fireman First Class Hodge throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.