Bryan Bailey, Jr.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Bryan Bailey, Jr. (0=347621), Ensign, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane of Torpedo Squadron THIRTH (VT-30), embarked from the U.S.S. BELLEAU WOOD (CVL-24), in action over Kure Harbor, Japan, on 19 March 1945. Ensign Bailey executed a determined and skillful attack on an enemy battleship in the face of extremely violent and concentrated antiaircraft fire from both surface vessels and shore batteries. Although his aircraft was struck and damaged by an explosive anti-aircraft shell during his bombing run, he nevertheless courageously pressed home his attack and scored two direct bomb hits on the battleship, thereby contributing to the material damage of an important enemy war vessel. His coolness and courage in the accomplishment of a hazardous mission were outstanding and were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Commander, 1st Carrier Task Force, Pacific: Serial 0530 (May 5, 1945)