JOHN E. BENNETT (then Lieutenant), United States Navy. For extraordinary heroism while serving aboard the U.S. SAN FRANCISCO during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Solomon Islands area on November 12 and 13, 1942. Although suffering great pain from a severe wound sustained at the height of the battle, Lieutenant Bennett, with cool courage and utter disregard for his own personal safety, organized a party to fight fires which were raging in the ship’s hanger while that area was still under hostile bombardment. His gallant initiative, maintained at great risk in the face of grave danger, was instrumental in minimizing damage to the ship and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Mr. Bennett is a life member and resided in California.