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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Commander Edgar E. Stebbins, United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commander of a Bombing Squadron attached to the U.S.S. YORKTOWN (CV-10) from 19 November to 4 December 1943. Commander Stebbins led his squadron in two brilliantly executed attacks against ground installations on Mille and Makin Islands. Later, as acting commander of an air group, he hurled the full strength of his unit against Japanese aircraft, ground installations and shipping and inflicted devastating losses.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander

    Action Date:

    World War II
    Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 334 (January 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Edgar E. Stebbins, United States Navy, for gallantry in action during World War II. Under his brilliant leadership as commander of a carrier-based air group in action at Truk, Saipan, Tinian, Palau and Woleai Islands, Commander Stebbins and his pilots destroyed 135 enemy planes, sank or damaged an important amount of Japanese shipping and effectively bombed vital ground installations. He personally accounted for two hostile aircraft and served as target observer on three occasions, remaining over the target area several hours each day to provide the task force commander with accurate information. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    Scouting Squadron

    Action Date:

    May 6, 1942
    Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 311 (February 1943)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Edgar E. Stebbins, United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of an airplane in a Scouting Squadron in the Battle of Midway on 6 June 1942. With utter disregard for his own personal safety, he took part in persistent bombing and strafing attacks against fleeing enemy forces in the face of tremendous anti-aircraft fire. By his stern perseverance and resolute devotion to the accomplishment of a vastly important objective, he contributed greatly to the destruction of the enemy and to the victory achieved by our forces. His conduct on this occasion was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.