John Sanford Cole

John Sanford Cole was an officer in the United States Navy during World War II. He was awarded the Navy Cross for his actions during the Battle of Leyte Gulf.

His award citation reads:

''The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant [then Lieutenant, Junior Grade] John Sanford Cole, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Scout Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron THIRTEEN (VB-13), attached to the U.S.S. FRANKLIN (CV-13), in action against enemy Japanese forces during the Battle for Leyte Gulf, on 25 October 1944. Participating in a vigorous strike against a large enemy Task Force, Lieutenant Cole boldly fought his plane through intense and continuous hostile anti-aircraft fire and aerial opposition and skillfully maneuvered his craft to score a direct hit upon a Japanese aircraft carrier, contributing materially to its sinking. By his brilliant airmanship, daring initiative and gallant fighting spirit, maintained against tremendous odds, Lieutenant Cole was instrumental in the infliction of overwhelming damage upon the Japanese Fleet during this historic battle. His outstanding courage and inspiring leadership reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.''

Cole was born in Boise, Idaho on May 21, 1920. His home of record was Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Cole died in 1953 when a Navy transport plane he was a passenger in crashed over the Atlantic Ocean.