Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Edward Frank Gibson (NSN: 0-97025), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in operations against the enemy in the Harbor of Muroran, Hokkaido, on 14 July 1945. While flying as flight leader of twelve carrier based dive bombers he scored a damaging hit on a large cargo ship. In the face of intense anti-aircraft fire from shore batteries and ships in the harbor and in spite of clouds which partially obscured the ship, he led his flight so skillfully into the target that extensive damage was inflicted upon the enemy without loss or damage to the attacking planes. His courage, skill and outstanding leadership were at all times inspiring and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    Bombing Fighting Squadron 85 (VBF-85)

    Division:

    U.S.S. Shangri-La (CV-38)

    Action Date:

    July 24 & 28, 1945

    The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Edward Frank Gibson (NSN: 0-97025), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber of Bombing Fighting Squadron EIGHTY-FIVE (VBF-85), attached to the U.S.S. SHANGRI-LA (CV-38), in an attack on the enemy heavy cruiser TONE in Kure Harbor, on 24 and 28 July 1945. Leading his division of six planes through intense anti-aircraft fire, he pressed home his attack and dropped his bomb squarely on the target resulting in a direct hit which left the ship burning throughout the day. His courageous leadership in combat was an inspiration to the other pilots and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.