Ralph D. Spalding, Jr.

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Ralph D. Spalding, Jr., Lieutenant, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Commander of a Navy Patrol Plane in Patrol-Bombing Squadron ONE HUNDRED TEN (VPB-110), in action over Europe on 3 September 1944. Lieutenant Spalding volunteered for and completed with excellent results a particularly hazardous mission of vital importance. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States.