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 First Lieutenant Harold Edward Segal (MCSN: 0-14615), United States Marine Corps, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of a Fighter Plane in Marine Fighting Squadron TWO HUNDRED TWENTY-TWO, in combat against enemy Japanese forces in the Solomon Islands Area from 11 October 1943 to 18 November 1943. Flying as wingman, First Lieutenant Segal took part in numerous raids, fighter sweeps, task force covers, strafing missions and patrols deep into enemy territory, often in the face of severe anti-aircraft fire and fighter opposition. Accompanied by one other plane while flying cover for a task force on 17 November, he attacked six Japanese bombers and, diving on three of the hostile craft, sent two crashing into the sea, then pressing home his attack against the third, succeeded in destroying it. First Lieutenant Segal’s superb airmanship and indomitable fighting spirit were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.


