The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Aviation Machinist’s Mate Third Class William Franklin Beard (NSN: 2663797), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as gunner of a heavy bomber engaged in combat search missions in the most forward areas of the South Pacific from 29 October to 15 November 1943. The ability and performance of duty of Aviation Machinist’s Mate Third Class Beard contributed materially in the securing of much valuable information so necessary to our forces in their sustained drive against the enemy in this vital area. The devotion to duty displayed by him on these many exacting missions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.