The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Ensign Edward Joseph Philippe (NSN: 0-176930), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary courage and devotion to duty while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of a Fighter Plane in Fighting Squadron SIX (VF-6), during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific War Area in the vicinity of Wake Islands on 6 October 1943. Upon sighting a flight of Japanese aircraft consisting of seven heavy bombers and five fighters, while on combat air patrol with his division, Ensign Philippe dove to the attack. He completed several aggressive attacks before he became separated from his Division. When last seen, Ensign Philippe was pressing home a determined attack on the formation of bombers, several of which were smoking badly and probably did not reach their base. His aggressive fighting spirit, skill and courage were an inspiration ton all with whom he served. From this action Ensign Philippe failed to return.