The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Ordnanceman Second Class Clifton Raymond Bassett, Jr. (NSN: 3812766), United States Navy, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as Gunner of an airplane in Bombing Squadron THREE (VB-3) in dive bombing attacks against Japanese naval forces in the Battle of Midway, 4 to 6 June 1942. Disregarding the extreme danger from intense anti-aircraft and fighter opposition, he continued to defend his airplane vigorously and with heroic determination, even though wounded, thereby contributing in a large measure to the glorious and decisive victory of our forces. His great courage and utter disregard of personal safety were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.