The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant George J. Walsh, United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in an aerial flight against enemy forces in the Philippine Islands on 13 November 1944. As a section leader he took part in a bombing attack against an enemy cruiser which was left burning and sinking after the attack. Despite heavy anti-aircraft fire he pressed his attack to low altitude and obtained a direct hit on the enemy vessel. His courage and determination were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.