The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Ordnanceman Second Class Samuel Baldassara Barlotta (NSN: 2748628), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as turret gunner in a carrier-based Torpedo Airplane assigned to attack the enemy fleet on 20 June 1944. Throughout a long flight beyond the normal combat range of his aircraft he performed his duties brilliantly. Although subjected to intense, accurate anti-aircraft fire which damaged his aircraft, he skillfully strafed the deck of the enemy ship with his turret gun and so inflicted damage upon the adversary as his aircraft retired from its attack. His coolness, 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 Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Ordnanceman First Class Samuel Baldassara Barlotta (NSN: 2748628), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in the Pacific Area during the period from 15 July to 26 July 1944. Aviation Ordnanceman First Class Barlotta 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.