The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade John E. Tarwater, United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron NINE (VT-9), attached to the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-10), in operations against major units of the Japanese fleet off Kyushu, Japan, on 7 April 1945. As pilot of a carrier-based torpedo plane, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Tarwater participated in a difficult and daring attack which sank a Japanese light cruiser. Flying by instruments through a heavy overcast, he broke through the clouds only to be caught in a cone of intense anti-aircraft fire. Notwithstanding, he pressed home his attack to point-blank range and scored one of the five direct hits which caused the vessel to roll over a minute later. While retiring his plane was subjected to continued and intense anti-aircraft fire from the cruiser and an escorting destroyer but, by superior airmanship, he brought his plane and crew through unscathed. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.