Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    Fighting Squadron 11 (VF-11)

    Division:

    U.S.S. Hornet (CV-12)

    Action Date:

    January 9, 1945

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant James Sprankle Brown, United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as the pilot of a carrier-based fighter plane in Fighting Squadron ELEVEN (VF-11), embarked in U.S.S. HORNET (CV-12), on 9 January 1945 in the vicinity of Formosa. While engaged in a strike against enemy shipping, he, with an accompanying plane, made repeated strafing attacks on a destroyer escort, inflicting such damage that the vessel exploded and sank. His attacks were carried out in the face of heavy and accurate anti-aircraft fire of all calibers. His heroism and skill were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.