In March 1942, flying his Douglas TBD Devastator he took part in the Salamaua–Lae Raid​ against Japanese shipping, for his actions on the mission, he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. During the Battle of the Coral Sea on 7 May 1942, he attacked the Japanese aircraft carrier Shōhō and his torpedo contributed to that ship's sinking. The following day his squadron flew against the fleet carriers "Shōkaku" and "Zuikaku". He was credited with pressing home an accurate attack through withering antiaircraft fire to deliver his torpedo against the hull of the "Shōkaku", however the torpedo malfunctioned and failed to detonate. Nevertheless, in recognition of his skill and gallantry, he was awarded the Navy Cross. Neither award was processed and approved before his death, so both were actually awarded posthumously.