The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Commander Evan Peter Aurand (NSN: 0-81177), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Commanding Officer of a Night Fighting Squadron during the attack upon the Japanese air bases at Tinian and Saipan Islands, 22 February 1944. He led a flight of four night fighters upon a dawn attack of the air fields at Tinian and Saipan which was the opening attack by our carrier-based planes. The four night fighters attacked the strong enemy air bases by making four strafing runs upon the estimated 50 to 60 grounded planes. They were finally opposed by twenty enemy fighters which managed to become airborne. During the air battle, the night fighters shot down five enemy fighters. He accounted for one of the enemy planes. By his disregard of personal safety, aggressive and skillful leadership, he inspired his flight to a high degree of achievement and performance of duty, which was 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 Evan Peter Aurand (NSN: 0-81177), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in operations against the enemy as Pilot of a fighter type airplane in defense of our naval forces during operations in the vicinity of Saipan, 15 June 1944. While leader of a division of night fighters which was sent out to intercept an enemy aerial attack, he intercepted and attacked with determination, courage, and skill an enemy dive bomber which was approaching our forces. His gunfire caused the enemy plane to break up and crash into the sea. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.