The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Machinist Julius A. Achten (NSN: 137137), United States Navy, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as a Pilot in Fighting Squadron SIX (VF-6), embarked in U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6). Machinist Achten was a member of an escort group in the Battle of Midway, 4 to 6 June 1942, which assumed a position over the Japanese invasion fleet and maintained it for an hour, thereby assuring an unopposed approach for our dive bombers. At another time during this battle, while participating in a combat patrol, he sighted and assisted in destroying a Japanese observation plane. His flying skill, courage and utter disregard for personal safety were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.