The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Second Lieutenant (Air Corps) Clair J. Clark, United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as pilot of a B-25 type aircraft of the 486th Bombardment Squadron, 340th Bombardment Group (M). On 14 January 1944, upon the commencement of the bomb run over Pontecorvo Italy, Lieutenant Clark was seriously wounded in one eye when heavy anti-aircraft fire burst near the bomber, crippling one engine and severely damaging his plane. Despite intense pain and the unstable condition of his aircraft, Lieutenant Clark completed a successful run over the objective, resulting in heavy damage to enemy installations. Turning for home, the disabled engine gave out completely and Lieutenant Clark had great difficulty in maintaining the aircraft in flight. Displaying outstanding Courage and exceptional flying ability, he managed to reach friendly territory where he a successful emergency landing without further damage to the B-25 or injury to his crew. His steadfast devotion to duty and extraordinary proficiency as a combat pilot reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.