William James Schaller

William James Schaller was an officer in the United States Navy during World War II. He was awarded the Navy Cross for his actions during the Battle of Leyte Gulf.

His award citation reads:

''The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Ensign William James Schaller (NSN: 0-299575), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron TWENTY (VT-20), attached to the U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6), in action on 24 October 1944, during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands. Ensign Schaller pressed home his torpedo attack on an enemy battleship in the face of intense anti-aircraft fire to score a hit which severely damaged it. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.''

Schaller was born on May 1, 1918 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He died on February 15, 1993.