The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant Darrell N. Smith (MCSN: 0-28280), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in connection with military operations against the enemy on Okinawa Shima, Nansei Shoto during the period 9 April to 6 May 1945. First Lieutenant Ross 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.
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Awards Received
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Distinguished Flying Cross
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Distinguished Flying Cross
Service:
United States Marine CorpsRank:
First LieutenantBatallion:
Marine Fighter SquadronAction Date:
September 25 – December 14, 1950
Commanding General, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing: Serial 3017 (April 10, 1951)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 First Lieutenant Darrell N. Smith (MCSN: 0-28280), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a Pilot attached to a Marine Fighter Squadron in Korea during the period 25 September 1950 to 14 December 1950. First Lieutenant Smith completed is Thirty-Fifth mission in close support of ground forces, destroying and inflicting great damage to concentrations of enemy vehicles, material and personnel, thereby contributing effectively to the defense of South Korea. By his airmanship and devotion to duty in the face of enemy anti-aircraft fire he contributed materially to the success of the friendly forces. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.