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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Ensign Philip Walker Cobb, United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron THREE (VB-3), attached to the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Battle of Midway during the period 4 to 6 June 1942. Defying extreme danger from a concentrated barrage of anti-aircraft fire and fierce fighter opposition, Ensign Cobb, with utter disregard for his own personal safety, participated in persistent and vigorous attacks against the Japanese invasion fleet. His gallant intrepidity and loyal devotion to the accomplishment of a vastly important objective contributed in large measure to the success achieved by our forces and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant, Junior Grade

    Batallion:

    Bombing Squadron 3 (VB-3)

    Division:

    U.S.S. Saratoga (CV-3)

    Action Date:

    August 24, 1942

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Philip Walker Cobb, United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Squadron THREE (VB-3), attached to the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-5), during action with a Japanese Naval Task Force in the Solomon Islands, on 24 August 1942. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Cobb launched a determined and vigorous attack against an enemy aircraft carrier, contributing effectively to the probable destruction of that vessel. His aggressive action, maintained in the face of withering anti-aircraft fire and violent fighter opposition, was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.