The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Vernon Earl Graham, 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 ELEVEN (VF-11), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Solomon Islands on 12 June 1943. Leading his division of four fighter planes against 35 Zeroes, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Graham and his comrades destroyed five enemy planes. He displayed superb airmanship in this and many hazardous escort missions and fighter sweeps. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Graham’s outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.