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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 Morrill I. Cook, Jr. (NSN: 0-99662), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron EIGHT (VF-8), attached to the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-8), during the “Air Battle of Midway,” against enemy Japanese forces on 4 June 1942. During the attack on our surface units by a strong force of enemy Japanese aircraft, Ensign Cook participated in the defense of our forces and with utter disregard for his own personal safety, courageously engaged and shot down two of the enemy attacking planes. This action, performed with fearless determination, contributed materially to the success attained by our forces and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant, Junior Grade

    Batallion:

    Fighting Squadron 8 (VF-8)

    Division:

    U.S.S. Hornet (CV-8)

    Action Date:

    October 26, 1942

    The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Morrill I. Cook, Jr. (NSN: 0-99662), United States Naval Reserve, for distinguished service in the line of his profession as Pilot in Fighting Squadron EIGHT (VF-8), embarked in U.S.S. HORNET (CV-8), during the successful aerial action against Japanese Naval Forces on 26 October 1942, near Santa Cruz Islands. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Cook courageously and fearlessly engaged numerous enemy fighters over the enemy fleet, enabling a striking force of scout bombers to reach and attack the objectives. He has been reported as missing in action. His conduct, conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity contributed in large measure to the heavy damage inflicted upon the enemy. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.