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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Air Corps), [then Major] Birrell Walsh (ASN: 0-18109), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action while serving with the 19th Bombardment Group (Heavy), Far East Air Force, in the Southwest Pacific Theater of Operations. On 8 December 1941, during the initial bombing raid by the enemy which occurred at Clark Field, Pampanga. Philippine Islands about noon time, which involved more than 75 twin engine bombers, followed by over one hour of intensive ground strafing by approximately 75 enemy fighters and dive bombers, Lieutenant Colonel Walsh, Operations Officer of the 19th Bombardment Group (Heavy), directed personally the dispersion of the airplanes of the Group. During the entire period of attack, with rarely an opportunity for cover, he supervised the defense of valuable Air Corps equipment. His cool conduct and excellent example under fire had a most steadying influence on his men, all of whom were under fire for the first time. The actions of Lieutenant Colonel Walsh were above and beyond the call of duty, and resulted in the saving of much life and property.

Awards Received

  • Air Medal

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    Colonel (Air Corps)

    Regiment:

    313th Bombardment Wing

    Division:

    20th Air Force

    Action Date:

    October – November 1941
    United States Military Academy Register of Graduates

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Air Medal to Colonel (Air Corps) Birrell Walsh (ASN: 0-18109), United States Army Air Forces, for meritorious achievement while participating in the first mass flight of B-17’s from Albuquerque, New Mexico, to Clark Field, Pampanga, Luzon, Philippine Islands, as a member of a combat crew October-November, 1941. This flight of the 19th Bombardment Group (H) from the United States across the Pacific Ocean to the Philippine Islands was performed at a time when the successful accomplishment of the mission proved to have direct bearing upon the security of the United States. Despite adverse weather, small airdromes, inadequate radio aids, and long over water flights with no alternate landing fields, the mission was accomplished within a short period of time. The performance of duty of each combat crew member resulted in the safe arrival of all airplanes involved on the flight. The services of Colonel Birrell Walsh reflect highest credit to the military forces of the United States.

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    Colonel (Air Corps)

    Regiment:

    313th Bombardment Wing

    Division:

    20th Air Force

    Action Date:

    February 10, 1945
    United States Military Academy Register of Graduates

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Colonel (Air Corps) Birrell Walsh (ASN: 0-18109), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Chief of Staff, 313th Bombardment Wing, TWENTIETH Air Force, on 10 February 1945. Colonel Walsh, Chief of Staff for the Commanding General on the Second mission in which B-29’s of the wing participated, an exceptionally dangerous 2,753 mile strike against the vital Nakajima aircraft factory at Ota in the heart of Japan. He risked his life in a supreme effort to secure information of vital concern to members of his command. His formation of B-29’s set an undeviating course for the target although the enemy sent up 106 fighter craft and accurate fire from the eighteen heavy anti-aircraft guns in a desperate effort to stop the attack. Their bombs destroyed more than thirty percent of the plant. Immediately after bombs away, the plane in which Colonel Walsh was flying and another B-29 collided and both were last seen hurtling earthward. One other plane was lost over the target and five were ditched on the homeward journey. The gallantry, intrepid leadership and devotion to duty shown by Colonel Walsh in his voluntary participation in a most hazardous mission are an inspiration to all members of this command and reflect great credit on himself and the Army Air Forces.