The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Distinguished Service Medal to Brigadier General William J. Wallace (MCSN: 0-1031), United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States in a duty of great responsibility as Commanding General of Air Defense Command and Fighter Command, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Okinawa, from 1 April 1945 to 10 June 1945. A forceful and dynamic leader, highly skilled in the tactics of aerial warfare, Brigadier General Wallace went ashore on Okinawa on 2 April, and, despite inclement weather conditions, limited personnel and the confusion of unloading and carrying out the disposition of supplies for a major campaign, expertly directed operations for the arrival and immediate launching of strikes by Marine Fighter aircraft; located and established an Air Defense Control Center and all available air warning squadrons and inaugurated Fighter Command operations in preparation for the scheduled landing of the first fighter group on 7 April. Continuing his brilliant direction, Brigadier General Wallace coordinated and supervised his composite organization of operating fighter groups, night fighter squadrons and air warning squadrons in carrying out their devastating offensive to account for more than 500 Japanese aircraft and provide close air support for our advancing ground forces during the assault phases of our sustained advance to capture this vital hostile stronghold. By his superb professional ability, sound judgment and cool courage under fire, Brigadier General Wallace contributed materially to the successful prosecution of the war and his valiant devotion to duty throughout reflects the highest credit upon himself, his command and the United States Naval Service.