The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Charles S. Arthur, Jr. (NSN: 0-124152), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy at the important Japanese base at Truk Atoll, Caroline Islands, on 16 and 17 February 1944. On 16 February 1944, as a pilot of the attack group assigned to attack enemy shipping and aircraft installations in Truk Atoll, he attacked and scored a direct hit on the stern of an armed cargo ship anchored in Eten Island anchorage, causing extensive damage. Later, on the same day, he attacked and scored a direct hit on another armed cargo ship in the same anchorage. This ship, hit by his bomb and a second bomb dropped by another pilot of his squadron, was seen to explode and sink. On 17 February 1944, he attacked and scored a near miss on a destroyer underway, outside the atoll, thereby contributing to the subsequent sinking of this ship. All of these attacks, made in the face of intense and accurate enemy anti-aircraft fire, resulted in extensive damage to the enemy. His performance of duty contributed greatly to the success of the operation and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Charles S. Arthur, Jr. (NSN: 0-124152), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flights in operations against the enemy in the vicinity of Tokyo, Iwo Jima, Kyushu, Honshu and Nansei Shoto. As pilot of a carrier-based plane during the period 10 February 1945 to 6 May 1945, he participated in twenty strikes against enemy shipping, airfields and installations inflicting extensive damage. His skill and courage were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.