The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant John Ronald Behr (NSN: 0-86021), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against enemy forces in the vicinity of the Philippine Islands on 11 October 1944. In the face of accurate anti-aircraft fire he led repeated attacks against enemy positions causing the destruction of four enemy planes and one ship and serious damage to another ship and installations. When his wingman was forced down in enemy waters he prevented his capture by the enemy and with complete disregard for his own safety directed successful rescue operations. His courage, skill and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.