LT Edward Henry Allen USN attended the University of North Dakota for two years prior to an appointment to the Naval Academy. He graduated the Naval Academy Class of 1931. After the required fleet assignments and Naval Aviator training he was assigned as Executive Officer, Scouting Squadron 2, embarked in USS Lexington CV-2.

In February, 1942 the Lexington was assigned to block enemy raids off Rabaul, New Britain. During aerial action on  February 20, 1942, her Combat Air Patrol splashed 17 of 18 attacking enemy aircraft.  LT Allen was awarded the Navy Cross for his performance in that action. Later, during the Battle of Coral Sea his aircraft was shot down by enemy aircraft and he was killed, May 7, 1942.  LT Allen received the award of a star in lieu of the second award of the Navy Cross for that action.  LT Allen also earned the American Defense Service Medal and the American Campaign Medal.  The USS Edward H. Allen DE-531 was named in his honor.

Submitted by Doug Bewall RMCM USN Ret.

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