Edward Henry Allen (March 2, 1908 – May 7, 1942) was a member of the United States Navy who was awarded the Navy Cross and Gold Star for his heroism.

Edward Henry Allen
Born(1908-03-02)March 2, 1908
Pekin, North Dakota
DiedMay 7, 1942(1942-05-07) (aged 34)
at sea Coral Sea
AllegianceUnited States of America
Service / branchUnited States Navy
Years of service1931-1942
RankLieutenant
UnitScouting Squadron 2
Lexington (CV-2)
Battles / warsWorld War II
*Battle of the Coral Sea
AwardsNavy Cross and
Gold Star in lieu of a
second Navy Cross
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Born in Pekin, North Dakota, Allen graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1931. He served with Scouting Squadron 2 in Lexington (CV-2).

Awarded the Navy Cross and Gold Star

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Lieutenant Allen was reported missing 7 May 1942 when his plane was shot down by enemy aircraft during the Battle of the Coral Sea. He was awarded a Navy Cross for the defense of his carrier 20 February 1942 and a Gold Star in lieu of a second Navy Cross for the action in which he lost his life.

Namesake

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Edward H. Allen (DE-531) was launched 7 October 1943 by Boston Navy Yard; sponsored by Mrs. David H. Clark; and commissioned 16 December 1943, Lieutenant Commander M. M. Sanford in command.

Attribution

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  This article incorporates text from the public domain Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships.