The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Aviation Radioman Third Class Leland “L” Bowen, United States Naval Reserve, for heroism while participating in aerial flights in operations against the enemy in the vicinity of Daito Shoto, Okinawa Jima, Kikai Jima, Tokyo, Hokkaido Kure, Maizuru, and Northern Honshu. As Radio and Radar Operator and Gunner on a carrier-based dive bomber during the period 25 April 1945 to 9 August 1945, he participated in twenty strikes against enemy airfields, installations, shipping, the battleship HARUNA and ground troops, inflicting extensive damage, rendering aid to United States ground forces. His skill and courage were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.