Thomas Garrow Wallace

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Thomas Garrow Wallace, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession while serving as First Lieutenant and Damage Control Officer of the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. INTREPID (CV-11), during operations in Philippine waters when his ship was attacked by a heavy force of Japanese aircraft on 25 November 1944. Though stunned and burned by the explosion of an enemy bomb on the flight deck of the INTREPID, Lieutenant Commander Wallace continued his efforts to direct fire-fighting crews amid smoke, flame and exploding ammunition. His efforts were instrumental in saving the ship from more serious damage and to him went the major credit for getting the fires under control. The conduct of Lieutenant Commander Wallace throughout this action reflects great credit upon himself, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.