The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Ensign Charles Edward Brode (NSN: 0-337684), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight on 15 December 1944, in the Philippine Sea. During bombing and strafing attacks on an enemy destroyer, he scored a direct hit on the enemy vessel, which is estimated to have been probably sunk as a result of the attack. His superb devotion to duty and his complete disregard for personal safety were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.