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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Air Medal to Ensign Reid Wentworth Stone, United States Naval Reserve, for meritorious conduct in aerial flight while in action with the enemy. As a member of Scouting Squadron SIX (VS-6), Ensign Stone participated in the initial attack on Kwajalein Atoll on 1 February 1942. This attack was made in the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire and resulted in damage to enemy planes and buildings. His plane was damaged so severely by anti-aircraft fire that he was unable to participate in the subsequent attacks made by his squadron. His performance of duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Ensign

    Batallion:

    Scouting Squadron 6 (VS-6)

    Division:

    U.S.S. Enterprise (CV-6)

    Action Date:

    June 4 – 6, 1942
    Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 310 (January 1943)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Ensign Reid Wentworth Stone, United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scouting Plane of Scouting Squadron SIX (VS-6), attached to the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), during the “Air Battle of Midway,” against enemy Japanese forces on 4 – 6 June 1942. Participating in a devastating assault against a Japanese invasion fleet, Ensign Stone, with fortitude and resolute devotion to duty, pressed home his attacks in the face of a formidable barrage of anti-aircraft fire and fierce fighter opposition. His gallant perseverance and utter disregard for his own personal safety were important contributing factors to the success achieved by our forces and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.