The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Electronics Technician Third Class Raymond Atherton, United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a member of a Patrol Plane in Patrol Squadron FORTY-TWO (VP-42). Participating in numerous missions against hostile North Korean forces during the period 21 August 1950 to 2 February, he added greatly to the success of his squadron, and completed thirty-five missions from 17 July 1950 to 27 January 1951. His courage, skill, and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.