The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Radioman Second Class Elmer A. Bolen (NSN: 8001053), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight during World War II. Aviation Radioman Second Class Bolen materially assisted his pilot in pressing home his torpedo attack upon a Japanese battleship. This attack was made in conjunction with two other torpedo planes resulting in two torpedo hits, one of which was obtained by his pilot, causing serious damage. During the attack, which was made in the face of intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire, he skillfully and courageously manned his gun and gave his pilot bearing and distances to the target.