The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Ensign George Alexander Reed, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron SEVEN (VB-7), attached to the U.S.S. HANCOCK (CV-19), in action against enemy Japanese forces in Philippine waters during the Battle of Leyte Gulf on 26 October 1944. as Pilot of a carrier-based Bombing Plane, Ensign Reed scored a destructive hit on a heavy cruiser of the Japanese Fleet in the Sulu Sea, which contributed to its probable sinking. In the face of a severe barrage of anti-aircraft fire and the fast maneuvering of the target, he displayed outstanding skill and conspicuous unwavering courage in driving home his attack. Ensign Reed’s outstanding courage, daring airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.