The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Captain George Theodore Benn Bell (MCSN: 0-37188), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for heroism while participating in aerial flight against the enemy as a member of Marine Fighting Squadron THREE HUNDRED TWELVE (VMF-312), on 5 September 1951, in the vicinity of Ponchong-kok, Korea. While on a close air support mission, Captain Bell leading the second section of a four plane division, contributed materially to the neutralization of a heavily-fortified enemy strong point. Heavy ground fire and rough mountainous terrain made accurate firing runs extremely hazardous but despite these circumstances and the fact that he was painfully wounded by anti-aircraft fire, Captain Bell made repeated low level napalm and strafing attacks, which inflicted heavy casualties on enemy troops and rendered the strong point ineffectual. Following the completion of his mission Captain Bell, although in great pain from his wound, rejoined his flight and returned safely to base. Throughout the engagement and the return flight, Captain Bell’s outstanding display of courage and skill were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.