The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Commander Verlyne Wayne Daniels (NSN: 0-554745), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight on 17 September 1967 as Pilot of a jet aircraft, serving with Attack Squadron ONE HUNDRED FIFTY-FIVE (VA-155), embarked in U.S.S. CORAL SEA (CVA-43). As the northern element leader, Commander Daniels participated in a major air-wing assault against the formidable Haiphong Railroad/Highway Bridge, the only railroad access to the port facility of Haiphong which is the major transshipment point for all of North Vietnam. He demonstrated courageous leadership, meticulous planning and outstanding airmanship in leading his strike group through a highly hazardous anti-aircraft artillery, surface-to-air missile, enemy aircraft environment. Disregarding the accurate tracking fire of the enemy artillery which continually endangered his strike group, Commander Daniels skillfully maintained flight order and, with remarkable precision, placed his group at the preplanned point of attack. After executing a devastating bombing attack which resulted in major damage to the bridge and its approaches, he then led his strike group in a retirement from the target, successfully avoiding fierce enemy opposition, and reaching a safe area without loss or damage to aircraft. Commander Daniels’ extraordinary leadership and professional competence resulted in a crippling blow to the enemy’s war effort and contributed significantly to United States objectives in Southeast Asia. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.