The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Gaylord Allen Peel (NSN: 0-374268), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of an Attack Bomber in Attack Squadron NINETY-FIVE (VA-95), based on board the U.S.S. PHILIPPINE SEA (CV-47), during operations against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 17 May 1953. Participating in a combat mission over the heavily defended Tanchon area, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Peel initiated repeated attacks in the face of withering anti-aircraft fire and scored direct hits on the target, severely damaging one locomotive and completely destroying five boxcars. During his final run on the objective, his aircraft sustained a direct hit from enemy anti-aircraft fire and he was forced to parachute over hostile territory. By his expert airmanship, marked courage and unwavering devotion to duty, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Peel contributed materially to the success of his squadron and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.