(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Lieutenant Paul E. Tepas (NSN: 0-104814), United States Naval Reserve, was awarded a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of a carrier-based dive bomber over the Gilbert Islands 19 – 22 November 1943; Kwajalein on 4 December 1943, and Roi-Namur on 29 and 31 January 1944 and on 1 February 1944.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Ensign Paul E. Tepas (NSN: 0-104814), United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of a Scouting plane in the Battle of Midway, 4 to 6 June 1942. Participating in persistent bombing and strafing attacks against fleeing enemy forces, he maintained clam and courageous conduct while attacking in the face of tremendous anti-aircraft fire. His grim fortitude and resolute devotion to the accomplishment of a vastly important mission contributed materially to the victory achieved by our forces and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.