The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Lieutenant John Edward Bennett (NSN: 100269), United States Navy, for heroism in the performance of his duties as Officer-in-Charge of a rescue party while serving aboard the Submarine U.S.S. QUEENFISH (SS-393) during a War Patrol in the Pacific. With disregard for his own personal welfare and safety and through his inspiring leadership, able supervision and courage, he assisted, sometimes swimming to reach exhausted survivors in hauling several of them on board his ship before heavy seas and an approaching storm prevented further rescues. His conduct and outstanding leadership was such as to inspire in his volunteer assistants an enthusiasm and spirit of self-sacrifice which was highly commendable. His courageous actions were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Sponsored by:
Awards Received
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Navy Cross
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Navy Cross
Service:
United States NavyRank:
LieutenantDivision:
U.S.S. San Francisco (CA-38)Action Date:
November 12 – 13, 1942
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant John Edward Bennett (NSN: 100269), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving on board the Heavy Cruiser U.S.S. SAN FRANCISCO (CA-38), during an engagement with Japanese naval forces near Savo Island on the night of 12 – 13 November, 1942. Although suffering great pain from a severe wound sustained at the height of the battle, Lieutenant Bennett, with cool courage and utter disregard for his own personal safety, organized a party to fight fires which were raging in the ship’s hanger while that area was still under hostile bombardment. His gallant initiative, maintained at great risk in the face of grave danger, was instrumental in minimizing damage to the ship and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.