The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Ensign Henry William Balsiger (NSN: 0-300713), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against enemy forces as the Pilot of a single-seater carrier-based fighter plane. On 16 October 1944, in the vicinity of Formosa, he was a wingman in an eight-plane flight on Combat Air Patrol. Upon sighting a large group of enemy aircraft he courageously pressed home his attack and destroyed three enemy bombers. His fearless and determined action contributed greatly to the success of this engagement and was at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Sponsored by:
Awards Received
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Distinguished Flying Cross
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Distinguished Flying Cross
Service:
United States NavyRank:
Lieutenant, Junior GradeBatallion:
Fighting Squadron 29 (VF-29)Action Date:
October 13, 1944 – February 25, 1945
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 Henry William Balsiger (NSN: 0-300713), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in the Pacific Area from 13 October 1944 to 25 February 1945. As a member of a division of carrier-based fighters in a series of strikes and sweeps against enemy airfields, installations and shipping in the Philippine Islands, Ryukyus and Formosa, he destroyed or damaged four enemy aircraft on the ground, bombed and accurately strafed one enemy battleship, damaged nine luggers and probably destroyed by bombing one freighter. He participated in two strikes in the Tokyo area, and despite heavy and accurate anti-aircraft fire, strafed strong enemy gun positions. By effectively escorting bombing and photographic planes on the above two missions, he contributed greatly to their successful completion. His unwavering devotion to duty and fortitude were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.