The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Edward Micka, 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 NINE (VF-9), attached to the U.S.S. RANGER (CV-4), during the occupation of French Morocco, from 8 to 11 November 1942. Leading a section of four planes in vigorous raids against hostile airdromes at Rabat-Sale and Port Lyautey, Lieutenant Micka, grimly pressing home his attacks in the face of relentless fire, contributed materially to the destruction of seventeen enemy planes on the ground and the silencing of three machine gun emplacements. Later, he participated in a series of hazardous, low-altitude strafing runs on the airdrome at Mediouna, persistently striking at his target through bursting shells of anti-aircraft fire until, on his fifth run, he was finally shot down. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Micka’s outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.