The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Commander John Hulme, United States Navy, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight from 4 February to 1 March 1943. Leading his Torpedo Bomber Squadron in three daring flights, Commander Hulme launched attacks on 20 Japanese destroyers, the well-fortified airfield at Munda Point, and upon ground installations in the Kahili-Ballale area.