The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Metalsmith First Class Vernon Davis Jernigan (NSN: 6409791), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving on board the Destroyer U.S.S. MORRISON (DD-560), in operations against the enemy during a Japanese suicide plane engagement north of Okinawa Jima, Ryukyu Islands, on the early morning of 4 May 1945. When a suicide plane crashed with a violent explosion in the vicinity of his station he, although mortally wounded about the head and bleeding profusely from his neck, courageously and fearlessly attacked the severe fires. With utter disregard for his own safety he bravely insisted on fighting the blazing fires, refusing medical assistance. He fought fires and effected temporary repairs until he was subsequently killed by a second suicide plane crash. His courage and devotion to duty were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.