The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Anthony C. Benjes, Jr., United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight against enemy forces in the vicinity of the Bonin Islands on 1 September 1944. As pilot of a carrier-based night fighter plane, and despite adverse weather conditions, he skillfully attacked and destroyed an enemy patrol aircraft which threatened the security of the task group. His skill and courage were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.


