The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Joe Frederick Ball (NSN: 0-157149), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight. During a period of hazardous night operations in the Bismarck Sea area, as co-pilot of a PBY-5 aircraft, he took part in successful attacks against enemy shipping. He assisted in the destruction of a large merchant vessel in the face of intense anti-aircraft fire, by releasing a 1,000-pound bomb which scored a direct hit on the ship, and further contributed to the damaging of a small ship and numerous barges. By his actions he demonstrated outstanding skill as an airman and great courage and coolness under fire, and his action were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Joe Frederick Ball (NSN: 0-157149), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight. On the night of 30 July 1944, as Commander of a PBY-5 aircraft patrolling in the vicinity of the enemy stronghold of Amboina, he attacked a large transport escorted by three warships, scoring four direct hits in a low-altitude run which resulted in the sinking of the vessel. His courageous conduct and his outstanding professional skill on this occasion were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.