Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Aviation Chief Radioman

    Batallion:

    Bombing Squadron 80 (VB-80)

    Action Date:

    June 20, 1944

    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 Aviation Chief Radioman James C. Bennett (NSN: 3763810), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Gunner and Radioman in a carrier-based dive bomber assigned to attack large Japanese Carrier Forces in the vicinity of the Eastern Philippine Sea on 20 June 1944. In spite of enemy air opposition and intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire from enemy warships, he performed his duties skillfully during the fire and materially assisted his pilot in scoring a direct bomb hit on a large enemy aircraft carrier. During retirement from this scene of action his plane was attacked by five enemy fighters. By skillfully handling his guns with only one gun firing, he was able to successfully ward off the attack of the enemy fighters until his pilot could take advantage of cloud cover. His courage and skill were at all times inspiring and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Aviation Chief Radioman

    Batallion:

    Bombing Squadron 80 (VB-80)

    Action Date:

    April 30 – June 14, 1944

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Chief Radioman James C. Bennett (NSN: 3763810), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in the combat area of the Pacific during the period 30 April 1944 to 14 June 1944. Aviation Chief Radioman 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.