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Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Commander Gaylord Byron Brown (NSN: 0-79611), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flights during operations against enemy force in June 1944 in the vicinity of the Mariana Islands. When his squadron commander was shot down he assumed command and with great skill directed attacks upon enemy units which destroyed at least eighteen aircraft and heavily damaged three small surface craft. During these actions, he shot down three enemy aircraft, one on 12 June and two on 19 June, and scored a bomb hit on an enemy air strip. His courage, skill, and leadership were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

Awards Received

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Commander

    Regiment:

    Carrier Air Group 7

    Division:

    U.S.S. Bon Homme Richard

    Action Date:

    June 18 – December 24, 1952
    Commander 7th Fleet: Serial 2749 (December 29, 1952

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Commander Gaylord Byron Brown (NSN: 0-79611), United States Navy, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commander, Carrier Air Group SEVEN, while serving aboard the U.S.S. BON HOMME RICHARD, during the period 18 June 1952 to 24 December 1952. Commander Brown demonstrated an inspirational and aggressive leadership which resulted in an outstanding performance by the squadrons under his command, thereby causing great damage to enemy installations in North Korea. His thorough understanding of the Naval mission in the Korean Conflict, combined with his sound professional skill, led him to make decisions which contributed immeasurably to the successful air operations against the enemy. He was responsible, through his high personal standards, for the remarkable spirit and morale of the entire air group. His courageous and inspiring leadership and steadfast devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.