The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Robert Joseph Baley, United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against enemy shipping on 1 March 1945, in the Nansei Shoto Area. As a member of a flight of twelve carrier-based dive bombers he participated in a coordinated attack against enemy ships which had sought protection in a harbor heavily-fortified by anti-aircraft fire and forcefully pressed home his attack and scored a direct bomb hit on a Japanese destroyer which was left burning and badly listing. His courage, skill and determination were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.