The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Ensign William Hill Anderson, United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as pilot in a carrier-based dive bomber assigned a search sector in the area of the Mariana Islands on 13 June 1944. In spite of persistent anti-aircraft fire, he performed his assignment in an outstanding manner and materially assisted in destroying enemy shipping. His skill and courage were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.