The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Ralph Cross (NSN: 0-508342), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving in Fighter Squadron ONE HUNDRED NINETY-ONE (VF-191), embarked in U.S.S. PRINCETON (CV-37, in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 14 June 1952. Participating in a daring strike against the enemy’s transportation system between Wonsan and Ham-hung, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Cross carried out a determined bombing attack in the face of intense hostile anti-aircraft fire and severed an important rail line near Honam-ni. Although the plane was struck by heavy enemy ground fire, he continued to strafe the area until his aircraft crashed to the ground with guns still blazing. By his marked courage, outstanding ability as an airman, and selfless devotion to duty , Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Cross was greatly instrumental in dealing a damaging blow to the enemy and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.