The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Aviation Radioman Third Class Russell Bradley, Jr., United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Radioman and Tail Gunner of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron EIGHT (VT-8), attached to the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-8). During the period 28 September 1942 to 6 October 1942, Aviation Radioman Third Class Bradley took part in two aerial attacks on the enemy while serving in the role of Radioman and Tunnel Gunner. In both of these attacks Aviation Radioman Third Class Bradley displayed unusual devotion to duty and courage in the face of enemy fire. He is particularly and especially to be commended for outstanding initiative and heroism for his actions on 6 October 1942. On this day, the plane he was serving in crashed into the water after attacking enemy concentrations and the pilot and crew were adrift for several days in a damaged life raft with little food and water. Aviation Radioman Third Class Bradley heroically volunteered to endeavor to swim ashore to secure any possible aid for his pilot and air bomber, who were physically incapacitated. After swimming in the shark-infested waters for eight hours against strong tidal currents, Aviation Radioman Third Class Bradley reached his destination and delivered his message. His heroic action and devotion to his duty have been an inspiration to his squadron.