The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Carl E. Moss, United States Navy, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a pilot of a jet aircraft attached to Fighter Squadron FIFTY-ONE aboard the U.S.S. CORAL SEA, on 2 June 1972. Moss was the strike leader’s wingman in a major air wing strike near Hanoi, North Vietnam. He expertly delivered his ordinance on the target but was hit by intense enemy anti-aircraft artillery fire. Although he experienced severe control difficulty, smoke in the cockpit and rear cockpit damaged, he maintained flight control and determined that he could fly his aircraft out to the sea. Investigation revealed damage to the rear ejection seat, and knowing that his radar intercept officer could not eject he made it back to his carrier and landed without longitudinal control other than trim. Lieutenant Moss’ courageous airmanship and professional coolness reflects great credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.