The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Ensign William Armstrong Balk (NSN: 0-299271), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy. As Pilot of a Torpedo Plane in Composite Squadron TWENTY-ONE (VC-21), based on the Carrier U.S.S. MARCUS ISLAND (CVE-77), Ensign Balk was assigned the mission of bombing major elements of the Japanese Fleet which were attacking our forces in the Battle of Samar Island on 25 October 1944. He guided his plane through intense anti-aircraft fire and scored a direct hit on the fantail of a heavy cruiser, damaging the ship severely. Although his plane was damaged by enemy fire, he brought it to a successful landing aboard his carrier. His courage and skill were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.