The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Machinist’s Mate Second Class Edward Robert Birnbaum (NSN: 7079163), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flights against major enemy surface task forces in the vicinity of the Central and Northern Philippine Islands on 24 and 25 October 1944. As gunner his cool performance of duty in the face of airborne opposition and intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire contributed much to the success of the missions enabling his pilot to score a torpedo hit on an enemy battleship. His skill and courage were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Second Gold Star in lieu of a Third Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Machinist’s Mate Second Class Edward Robert Birnbaum (NSN: 7079163), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in the combat area of the Pacific during the period 10 October to 25 October 1944. Aviation Machinist’s Mate Second Class Birnbaum completed his fortieth flight in a combat area where enemy anti-aircraft fire was expected to be effective or where enemy aircraft patrols usually occurred. His conduct throughout has distinguished him among those performing duties of the same character.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Machinist’s Mate Second Class Edward Robert Birnbaum (NSN: 7079163), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in the combat area of the Pacific during the period 20 July to 25 July 1944. Aviation Machinist’s Mate Second Class Birnbaum completed twenty flights in a combat area where enemy anti-aircraft fire was expected to be effective or where enemy aircraft patrols usually occurred. His conduct throughout has distinguished him among those performing duties of the same character.