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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Jack D. Cruze, United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while piloting a Patrol Plane in the Southwest Pacific area from 4 to 15 October 1943. Lieutenant Cruze engaged in frequent bombing and harassing raids on hostile shipping and shore installations. He sank three Japanese barges, severely damaged warehouses, docks and two other barges and probably inflicted damage on five cargo ships. On the night of 4 October when his plane caught fire in mid-air, he skillfully maneuvered the burning craft for a safe landing in heavy seas. After extinguishing the flames he effected a difficult take-off and returned to base without injury to the crew.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    Patrol Squadron 11 (VP-11)

    Action Date:

    November 1 – 16, 1943
    Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 337 (April 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant Jack D. Cruze, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Commander of a Navy Catalina Patrol Plane in Patrol Squadron ELEVEN (VP-11), operating over the Solomon Sea and the vicinity of the Bismarck Archipelago from 1 to 16 November 1943. Flying under hazardous weather conditions and in the face of heavy anti-aircraft opposition, Lieutenant Cruze skillfully located the enemy and, maneuvering his plane for maximum tactical advantage, delivered an accurate hit on a hostile cargo ship, destroyed a wharf and inflicted severe damage on many barges. On the night of 16 November, when he sighted a large force of enemy vessels, he promptly and fearlessly maneuvered his plane for a low-altitude bombing attack and, approaching his target through a barrage of withering anti-aircraft fire, scored two direct and punishing hits, destroying or seriously damaging a valuable transport. Lieutenant Cruze’s splendid airmanship, valorous initiative and unswerving devotion to duty at great personal risk were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.