Arthur L. Maltby, Jr.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Navy Cross to Arthur L. Maltby, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Bomber and Commanding Officer of Bombing Squadron EIGHTY-FIVE (VB-85), attached to the U.S.S. SHANGRI-LA (CV-38), in action against enemy Japanese forces in Kure Harbor, Japan, on 28 July 1945. Executing a skillful approach to his target, Lieutenant Commander Maltby dived through intense antiaircraft fire from ship and shore batteries to score a direct hit on the enemy battleship HARUNA, thereby contributing materially to the beaching of this vessel shortly thereafter. His outstanding airmanship, courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Arthur L. Maltby, Jr., Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Bomber and Flight Leader in Bombing Squadron EIGHTY-FIVE (VB-85), attached to the U.S.S. SHANGRI-LA (CV-38), in action against enemy Japanese forces at the Yokosuka Naval Base on 18 July 1945. Carrying out a determined attack on the enemy battleship, Nagato, Lieutenant Commander Maltby led his flight through intense ship and shore antiaircraft fire from the point of commencing the final approach until well after pulling out and, dropping his bomb directly on the aiming point, contributed materially to the infliction of damage on the hostile warship. Although his plane was severely damaged by enemy fire during the attack, he brought it safe back to base. Lieutenant Commander Maltby’s gallant leadership and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards: 2@ Navy Crosses (WWII)