The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Robert E. Schumacher (NSN: 0-337384), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron EIGHTY-TWO (VB-82), attached to the U.S.S. BENNINGTON (CV-20), in action against major units of the enemy Japanese Fleet in the East China Sea near Kyushu, Japan, on 7 April 1945. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Schumacher drove home a fearless and skillfully executed attack despite adverse weather and in the face of intense, accurate anti-aircraft fire from all ships of this force. He bombed an enemy cruiser, materially contributing to the damage inflicted upon it. His resolution and courage were outstanding and were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.