Wallace Anthony Brady

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Wallace Anthony Brady, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of Landing Craft Infantry Gunboat FOUR HUNDRED FIFTY (LCI(G)-450), operating as a unit of LCI(G), Group EIGHT, in action against enemy Japanese forces during the close-in fire support operations against Iwo Jima in the Volcano Islands on 17 February 1945. Determined to smash Japanese defenses, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Brady fearlessly closed range to less than one thousand yards despite several large caliber hits from hostile shore batteries which started a serious fire, exploded ready ammunition aboard the 450 and wounded several of the crew. Firing a full rocket salvo well on the beach under terrific enemy fire, he resolutely remained on station and, directing a continuous barrage from his 40-mm and 20-mm batteries, effectively maintained a relentless bombardment of the strongly fortified Japanese positions until recurring fires and explosions aboard his gallantly fighting ship forced his withdrawal from the field of combat. By his great personal valor, indomitable fighting spirit and tenacious perseverance in the face of fanatic opposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Brady contributed materially to the success of this extremely hazardous mission and his aggressive leadership throughout the bitter engagement upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.