Name/Title
Navy Cross of James H. Flatley, Jr.Description
A bronze, Templar cross medal with laurel and berries interspersed between the arms. The cross has a central design of crossed anchors and the letters 'USN.' The reverse design is a wooden sailing ship. The attached ribbon is navy blue with a single, vertical white stripe running down the middle.Use
The Navy Cross is the second-highest award that can be awarded by the US Navy for extraordinary heroism in combat.Context
James H. Flatley was an accomplished aviator and Navy ace who served during the Second World War. Having served aboard three different carriers, including the USS Yorktown (CV-10), Flatley was an early innovator in carrier aviation. Flatley continued to be an advocate for the importance of carrier aviation throughout his career. Flatley retired in 1958 with the rank of Vice Admiral.
Flatley was presented the Navy Cross by Admiral Halsey on the flight deck of the USS Enterprise (CV-6) on September 30, 1942. Flatley was awarded the Navy Cross for his actions as leader of Fighting Squadron 42 (VF-42) on May 7th and 8th, 1942 during the Battle of the Coral Sea.Collection
James H. Flatley Jr. CollectionAcquisition
Accession
2024.40Source or Donor
Found in CollectionAcquisition Method
Found in CollectionUpdate Date
August 2, 2024
