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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Anthony Francis Gilroy (NSN: 0-290481), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving as a Pilot in a carrier-based Bombing Squadron on 29 October 1944. In the face of extremely intense anti-aircraft fire from three enemy cruisers, several destroyers and shore batteries in the vicinity of the Philippine Islands he pressed his attack home with vigor and determination and scored a probable hit on an enemy heavy cruiser. His courage was at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant, Junior Grade

    Batallion:

    Bombing Squadron 7 (VB-7)

    Division:

    U.S.S. Hancock (CV-19)

    Action Date:

    October 25, 1944
    Commander 2d Carrier Task Force Pacific: Serial 01050 (January 20, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Anthony Francis Gilroy (NSN: 0-290481), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Dive Bomber in Bombing Squadron SEVEN (VB-7), attached to the U.S.S. HANCOCK (CV-19), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Sulu Sea in the Philippine Islands, on 25 October 1944. Flying to extreme range from his carrier against major units of the enemy Fleet off Samar he pressed home his attack despite intense anti-aircraft fire in utter disregard of his own safety and scored a direct hit on an enemy battleship. His courage and skill were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.