The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Ensign Claude C. Howell, Jr. (NSN: 0-445664), United States Navy, for heroism and gallant devotion to duty as Pilot of a Fighter Aircraft in Fighter Squadron TWENTY-FOUR (VF-24), attached to U.S.S. BOXER (CV-21), during action against enemy forces in the Uitengbu area of Korea in which he gave his life. While participating in a Close Air support mission over enemy occupied territory, Ensign Howell in the face of intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire and small arms fire from numerous concealed batteries and entrenched troops made repeated attacks on enemy equipment. His accuracy in the use of his weapons destroyed numerous troops, buildings concealing tanks and gun positions. His aggressive actions combined with an utter disregard for his own personal safety constitutes an example of heroic achievement in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.