The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Master Sergeant Eldon L. Baumwart (MCSN: 642146), United States Marine Corps, for heroism while participating in aerial flight in Korea while serving as a pilot attached to a Marine All Weather Fighter Squadron, engaged in a night intruder mission over eastern North Korea on the night of 7 March 1952. After carefully reconnoitering the assigned target area, Master Sergeant Baumwart discovered a convoy of vehicles moving along the road near Ryon-ni and directed the accompanying flare-dropping aircraft to illuminate the area. Quickly assessing the mountainous terrain and choosing a feasible lane of approach and retirement, Master Sergeant Baumwart executed a series of napalm, bombing and strafing attacks which resulted in the destruction of six supply-laden vehicles. He persisted in these attacks until his ordnance was expended despite the hazards imposed by mountainous terrain, restricted visibility and continuous anti-aircraft fire. Master Sergeant Baumwart’s alertness, superb airmanship and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.


