The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Commander Gerald Schouler Bogart (NSN: 0-77673), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Commander of a Patrol Squadron operating in the North Solomons area from 10 June 1944 to 23 September 1944. Lieutenant Commander Bogart provided inspirational leadership for the officers and men of his command. He displayed great flying skill as a patrol plane commander on numerous occasions while participating in extremely hazardous night bombing, and strafing missions over enemy targets under adverse weather conditions. During these missions, flying at low altitude over New Ireland, and in the face of enemy fire he destroyed a bridge and a building, scored several direct hits on an enemy supply dump, and strafed various enemy installations and bivouac areas. His personal courage, devotion to duty, inspirational leadership, and professional skill were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.