The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Edward Everett Bennett, JR. (NSN: 0-116294), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flights against enemy forces on 23 October 1944, while flying a carrier-based fighter aircraft of Fighting Squadron NINETEEN (VF-19), embarked in U.S.S. LEXINGTON (CV-16). During a long range search for enemy surface units he encountered many enemy twin-engined bombers; two of which he shot down and inflicted severe damage on the last run, and it was with great difficulty that he was able to return to his carrier. His courage and skill were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Edward Everett Bennett, JR. (NSN: 0-116294), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in the combat area of the Pacific during the period 21 September to 10 October 1944. Lieutenant Bennett completed twenty flights in a combat area where enemy anti-aircraft fire was expected to be effective or where enemy aircraft patrols usually occurred. His conduct throughout has distinguished him among those performing duties of the same character.