The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Commander Robert C. Bengston (NSN: 0-73503), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight. On the nights of 15 February and 9 March 1944, as commander of a PBY-5 aircraft operating in the Bismarck Sea area, he made gallant and courageous attacks upon enemy merchant vessels in the vicinity of strong enemy bases. These attacks were made at masthead height under extremely adverse conditions, including hazardous weather, dangerous terrain and concentrated anti-aircraft fire which on one occasion damaged his aircraft. He sank two merchantmen and ten barges, and damaged shore installations at Muschu Island and Hollandia. During the period of 15 February to 28 May 1944, his squadron destroyed or sank fifty-one barges and 12,250 tons of enemy shipping. His actions on these occasions displayed skillful and courageous leadership and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.