(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Darrell D. Irwin (MCSN: 0-6749), United States Marine Corps, was awarded a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Pacific War Area during World War II.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Second Lieutenant Darrell D. Irwin (MCSN: 0-6749), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a Pilot of Marine Fighting Squadron TWO HUNDRED TWENTY-ONE (VMF-221), in action against enemy Japanese forces during the battle of Midway, 4 June 1942. With utter disregard for his personal safety, Second Lieutenant Irwin delivered a dauntless and aggressive attack against a vastly superior number of enemy Japanese bomber and fighter planes, thereby aiding in the disruption of enemy plans and lessening the effectiveness of their attack. His courageous determination, maintained at great risk, contributed materially to the success of our forces and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.