The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Forrest W. Bell (NSN: 0-223870), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of Landing Craft Infantry Gunboat FOUR HUNDRED FORTY-ONE (LCI(G)-341), a close-in fire support ship operating as a unit of LCI(G), Group EIGHT, on 17 February 1945, while participating in the pre-invasion bombardment of Iwo Jima, Volcano Islands. In the face of heavy fire from Japanese coastal defense guns, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Bell skillfully maneuvered his ship close to the beach, directing continued heavy fire on assigned targets in a conspicuously heroic manner. Despite many personnel casualties and serious material damage he continued to fight his ship most effectively until ordered to withdraw. By his courage, skill in combat and determination he contributed materially to the success of a most difficult operation. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Bell’s exceptional courage and valiant devotion to duty in the face of grave danger were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.