The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Air Controlman First Class Leroy L. Barton (NSN: 3565025), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of a helicopter assigned to the U.S.S. WISCONSIN (BB-64) during combat operations in Korean waters. On 21 January 1952, Air Controlman First Class Barton flew his helicopter to within one mile of enemy beaches and, with complete disregard for his own safety, rescued a downed pilot in spite of enemy gunfire from the beach. Again, on 4 February 1952, Air Controlman First Class Barton courageously flew his helicopter into the enemy-held area of Kojo, Korea, in search of a downed friendly airman. Disregarding intense anti-aircraft fire, which hit his helicopter, he reached the vicinity where the airman was believed to be located. After an exhaustive search in the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire, he was forced to abandon the search due to lack of fuel and return to his ship, arriving after dark. His courageous conduct and steadfast devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.