The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain William L. Beerman, Jr. (MCSN: 0-12625), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a Section and Division Leader of Marine Fighting Squadron TWO HUNDRED ELEVEN (VMF-211), operating in the Solomon Islands and Bismarck Archipelago areas from 16 October 1943 to 26 April 1944. During this period, Captain Beerman led his division on numerous patrol, escort, and strafing missions. On 9 January, while escorting a bomber strike against Rabaul, he destroyed one of the many enemy fighter planes which attempted to intercept the formation. On 23 January, he led his division on a bold fighter sweep over Rabaul and shot down one and probably destroyed two other Japanese interceptors. His courageous conduct and superior airmanship contributed materially to the combat efficiency of the squadron, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.