LIEUTENANT JESSE "W" NAUL, JR., UNITED STATES NAVAL RESERVE, for extraordinary heroism as Leader of a Division of Torpedo Bombers in Torpedo Squadron EIGHTY TWO, attached to the U.S.S. BENNINGTON, in action against an enemy Japanese Task Force off Kyushu, Japan, April 7, 1945. Joining his wingman in a coordinated two-plane attack, Lieutenant Naul braved an intense barrage of anti-aircraft fire and succeeded in scoring a torpedo hit on a hostile cruiser, thereby contributing materially to its subsequent sinking. His skill, courage and devotion to the fulfillment of a hazardous mission were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Lt. CMDR. Naul resides in Texas. He joined the L.O.V. in 1987.