The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade George Spencer Brainard (NSN: 0-320881), United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as pilot of a carrier-based fighter plane in an attack against an enemy convoy in the China Sea on 12 January 1945. Despite intense anti-aircraft fire from several escort vessels, he pressed his attack home to a low altitude and scored four rocket hits on a destroyer escort, contributing to the total destruction of the vessel. His skill and courage were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.