The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Ensign David B. Freeman, United States Navy, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of a Fighter Plane in action against enemy Japanese forces in the Battle of Midway, on 6 June 1942. Participating in persistent bombing and strafing attacks against fleeing enemy forces, he calmly and courageously pressed home his attack to within perilously short range of his objective, despite tremendous anti-aircraft barrage. His stern fortitude and resolute devotion to the accomplishment of a vastly important mission contributed materially to the success obtained by our forces and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.