Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant, Junior Grade

    Batallion:

    Bombing Fighting Squadron 5 (VBF-5)

    Action Date:

    March 19, 1945

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Orson A. Boyce (NSN: 0-173733), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in operations against Japanese shipping on 19 March 1945, in Kobe Harbor. As pilot of a carrier-based dive bombing plane he participated in an attack against a large Japanese carrier hull. Flying through intense anti-aircraft fire he pressed home his attack to within 1,800 feet. Before he released is bombs, no hits on the carrier hull had been observed. During and after his retirement heavy fires and smoke were seen issuing from the hull. His courage and skill were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.