The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Henry F. Brotherton, United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as a fighter pilot on 19 June 1944, west of the Mariana Islands. He took part in the interception of a large enemy air group intent on destroying our task force. He shot down two enemy planes himself and with the assistance of another friendly fighter, shot down a third enemy plane. His coolness, skill, and courage were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.