Joseph Louis Baruzzini

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Joseph Louis Baruzzini, 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 EIGHTY SEVEN (VT-87), embarked from the U.S.S. TICONDEROGA (CV-14), during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Kure Area of the Inland Sea of Japan, on 28 July 1945. Braving intense anti-aircraft fire from the enemy warships and shore batteries, Ensign Baruzzini executed a bold glide-bombing attack against the Japanese cruiser TONE to score a direct hit on the enemy vessel and contribute materially to the success of his squadron in beaching it. His expert airmanship, indomitable spirit and devotion to duty throughout reflect the highest credit upon Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Baruzzini and the United States Naval Service.