The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Donald Russell Beeson (NSN: 0-112005), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flights in operations against the enemy on Nansei Shoto and Kyushu. As pilot of a carrier-based plane during the period from 18 March 1945 to 13 May 1945, he participated in twenty strikes against enemy shipping, airfields and installations, inflicting extensive damage. His skill and courage were at all times inspiring and 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 Lieutenant Donald Russell Beeson (NSN: 0-112005), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy while serving as a pilot of a carrier-based Torpedo Bomber Plane in a carrier strike against major units of the Japanese Fleet at Kure Naval Base, Honshu, on 28 July 1945. He skillfully piloted his aircraft in a glide bombing attack on an enemy cruiser. During this action, in the face of anti-aircraft fire, he scored a direct hit with his bomb which contributed to the damage inflicted on a cruiser. His skill and courage were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.