Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Sergeant Wallace Jordan Reid (MCSN: 290518), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Radioman-Gunner in Marine Scout-Bombing Squadron TWO HUNDRED FORTY-ONE (VMSB-241), during the Battle of Midway, 4 and 5 June 1945. In a determined attack against the invading Japanese Fleet, Corporal Webb, serving as rear-seat free machine-gunner, maintained fire in the face of overwhelming enemy fighter opposition and fierce anti-aircraft barrage. Although wounded in this action, he continued to man his gun throughout the engagement and again during two other missions on 4 and 5 June. His courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Marine Corps

    Rank:

    Corporal

    Regiment:

    Marine Aircraft Group 14

    Action Date:

    October 8, 1943

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Wallace J. Reid (MCSN: 290518), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a gunner in a scout plane attached to Marine Aircraft Group FOURTEEN, on patrol over New Georgia Channel, 8 October 1942. Subjected to a devastating attack by an overwhelming force of enemy fighter planes as well as intense anti-aircraft fire, Corporal Reid maintained constant and effective fire against to superior opposition until his guns jammed. He then rendered valuable service by indicating to the pilot the course to steer in evading enemy fire. Largely as a result of his action, the pilot and plane were saved.