The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Edgar P. Barber (NSN: 0-157538), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight while serving aboard the U.S.S. SUWANNEE (CVE-27). As a member of a four-man fighter combat team he engaged on patrol over the Philippine Islands on 24 October 1944. When his flight observed eight enemy bombers rapidly approaching our shipping and beachhead areas, he attacked immediately, disregarding the danger areas about a defensive bomber formation. Flying through our own anti-aircraft fire, which became increasingly intense as the target was approached, he, with his three team mates, attacked with such vigor and tenacity that the enemy was completely annihilated before hey could cause damage to our forces. The following day Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Barber effectively attacked an enemy Cruiser in the Battle of Samar Island. His devotion to duty, courage and skill were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.