The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Garland E. Bell, United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against the enemy during the occupation of Iwo Jima and Okinawa Gunto from 15 February 1945 to 8 June 1945. As pilot of a scout observation plane based on the U.S.S. TUSCALOOSA (CA-37), he participated in twenty spotting missions over enemy-held territory. In the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire, which he was continuously in range of, he furnished vital information to bombardment ships and skillfully directed their gunfire in support of the ground forces. He executed each assignment with determination and constantly remained over dangerous areas until all targets were destroyed or neutralized. His courage and devotion to duty were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.