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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Ensign Bryan Bailey, Jr. (NSN: 0-347621), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron THIRTY (VT-30), attached to the U.S.S. BELLEAU WOOD (CVL-24), in action over Kure Harbor, Japan, on 19 March 1945. Ensign Bailey executed a determined and skillful attack on an enemy battleship in the face of extremely violent and concentrated anti-aircraft fire from both surface vessels and shore batteries. Although his aircraft was struck and damaged by an explosive anti-aircraft shell during his bombing run, he nevertheless courageously pressed home his attack and scored two direct bomb hits on the battleship, thereby contributing to the material damage of an important enemy war vessel. His coolness and courage in the accomplishment of a hazardous mission were outstanding and were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant, Junior Grade [then Ensign]

    Batallion:

    Torpedo Squadron 30 (VT-30)

    Division:

    U.S.S. Belleau Wood (CVL-24)

    Action Date:

    February 16 – June 3, 1945

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade [then Ensign] Bryan Bailey, Jr. (NSN: 0-347621), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of a Torpedo Bomber in Torpedo Squadron THIRTY (VT-30), attached to the U.S.S. BELLEAU WOOD (CVL-24), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of the Mainland of Japan and the Nansei Shoto Area, from 16 February to 3 June 1945. Completing twenty missions during this period, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Bailey contributed materially to the infliction of extensive damage on enemy shipping, airfields and installations and to the success of his squadron in this area. His skilled airmanship and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.