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 Lieutenant William R. Beswick (NSN: 0-81698), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as pilot of a heavy bomber operating in the Solomon Islands Area during the period from January to September 1943. He participated in numerous strikes against the enemy, and in patrol, reconnaissance and attack missions, often under adverse flying conditions and against active enemy opposition. His courageous efforts contributed materially to the gains made in that area and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant William R. Beswick (NSN: 0-81698), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight. While acting as Patrol Plane Commander during the Aleutian Islands Campaign of June 1942, he made frequent and repeated flights, on search and attack mission into areas where vigorously defending enemy units were present. These flights were made under weather and combat conditions which require exceptional devotion to duty to accomplish the mission assigned. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.