The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Chief Boatswain’s Mate Charles John Lyons, United States Navy, for distinguished service and devotion to duty while serving on the U.S.S. MOUNT VERNON, when that vessel was torpedoed on 5 September 1918. Chief Boatswain’s Mate Lyons went to his station on the main deck to assist with collision mats, and under instructions went to the. forecastle to clear the dip rope. He went over the side in a bowline and succeeded under dangerous conditions.