The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Charles R. Walton (NSN: 0-156660), 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 EIGHTY-TWO (VT-82), attached to the U.S.S. BENNINGTON (CV-20), in action against major units of the enemy Japanese Fleet off Kyushu, Japan, on 7 April 1945. During a torpedo attack against a strong enemy Task Force, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Walton participated in a five-plane coordinated attack on a Japanese cruiser which was hit by two torpedoes contributing to its later sinking. His attack was made in the face of withering anti-aircraft fire from the entire enemy force. His outstanding airmanship and devotion to the fulfillment of a hazardous mission were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.