The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Earl Francis Luther, Jr., United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scout Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron THIRTEEN (VB-13), attached to the U.S.S. FRANKLIN (CV-13), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Sibuyan Sea during the Air Battle of Leyte Gulf on 25 October 1944. In the face of continuous and intense anti-aircraft fire and enemy air opposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Luther pressed home a determined dive bombing attack on a hostile aircraft carrier and, accurately releasing his bomb load at perilously low altitude, scored a direct hit which contributed to its sinking. By his superb flying ability, indomitable fighting spirit and cool courage, maintained at great personal risk, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Luther contributed immeasurably to the extensive and costly damage inflicted on the Japanese fleet in this vital war area. His conduct throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.