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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade [then Ensign] Lyttleton Thomas Ward (NSN: 0-337770), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron EIGHTY-THREE (VF-83), attached to the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action during a two-plane search mission in the vicinity of the Island of Okinawa, on 27 March 1945. After sighting an enemy combatant ship, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Ward braved intense hostile anti-aircraft fire to press home a determined attack and, by his expert strafing and rocket hits, contributed materially to the infliction of serious damage on the enemy vessel. His outstanding airmanship and devotion to the fulfillment of a hazardous mission reflect great credit upon Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Ward and the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant, Junior Grade

    Batallion:

    Fighting Squadron 83 (VF-83)

    Division:

    U.S.S. Essex (CV-9)

    Action Date:

    May 4, 1945
    Commander 1st Carrier Task Force Pacific: Serial 0808

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Lyttleton Thomas Ward (NSN: 0-337770), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Pilot of a Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron EIGHTY-THREE (VF-83), attached to the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Okinawa on 4 May 1945. While participating in a mission over enemy-controlled territory, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Ward attacked a large group of hostile aircraft and, by his skill and determination, succeeded in shooting down four Japanese planes. His courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Ensign

    Batallion:

    Fighting Squadron 83 (VF-83)

    Division:

    U.S.S. Essex (CV-9)

    Action Date:

    March 18 – May 21, 1945

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Ensign Lyttleton Thomas Ward (NSN: 0-337770), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving as a Fighter Pilot in Fighting Squadron EIGHTY-THREE (VF-83), attached to the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of Kyushu and Okinawa, from 18 March 1945 to 21 May 1945. Completing his twentieth mission during this period, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Ward contributed materially to the success of his squadron in the infliction of extensive damage on enemy airfields and installations. His courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.