For Heroism

The Distinguished Flying Cross Citation below and medal (show above) were awarded to Wally posthumously for his actions on October 25,1944:

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Radioman Third Class Wallace Arnold Barney (NSN: 6606140), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving as Radioman and Tunnel Gunner of a carrier-based torpedo plane on 25 October 1944. He flew 340 miles to make a successful bombing attack on a battleship of the NAGATO Class in a strong formation of the Japanese Fleet in the Second Battle of the Philippines. In spite of intense enemy anti-aircraft fire, he performed his assignment in an outstanding manner, strafed the enemy battleship on the pull-out from the bombing dive and by the cool and diligent performance of his duties materially assisted in the infliction of damage on the enemy fleet by the attack. His skill and courage and superlative performance of duty in the face of damaging fire were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Action Date: October 25, 1944

Service: Navy

Rank: Aviation Radioman Third Class

Company: Torpedo Squadron 7 (VT-7)