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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant William Shuler Burns (NSN: 0-114502), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in the Pacific Area from 24 July 1944 to 4 August 1944. Lieutenant Burns completed twenty flights in a combat area where enemy anti-aircraft fire was expected to be effective or where enemy aircraft patrols usually occurred. His conduct throughout has distinguished him among those performing duties of the same character.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    Torpedo Squadron 15 (VT-15)

    Division:

    U.S.S. Essex (CV-9)

    Action Date:

    October 24, 1944
    Commander 2d Carrier Task Force Pacific: Serial 0451 (December 17, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant William Shuler Burns (NSN: 0-114502), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron FIFTEEN (VT-15, attached to the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against enemy Japanese surface forces over the Sibuyan Sea during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands on 24 October 1944. Leading his division through intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire, Lieutenant Burns pressed home his attack to close range, scoring a hit and inflicting damage. His courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.