The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Arthur L. Brooks (NSN: 0-320426), United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight in operations against the enemy in the Tokyo area on 16 February 1945. He flew as wingman on a photographic plane accompanying a carrier-based bomber formation. In addition to flying over 130 miles of enemy territory which was vigorously defended by enemy fighters and anti-aircraft fire, he accompanied and protected the photographic plane while it made an excellent series of pictures of the target, an aircraft depot and assembly plant. During his flight over the target area he engaged in several enemy fighters, scoring a probable kill on one of them and afterwards helped his team fight clear of the area despite further interceptions by the enemy. His courage and skill was at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.