The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Elmo L. Moss, United States Naval Reserve, for heroism and extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight during the invasion of the Island of Sicily. From 10 July to 19 July 1943, Lieutenant Moss, while attached to the U.S.S. PHILADELPHIA (CL-41), piloted a cruiser scouting plane on numerous spotting and reconnaissance missions and with great efficiency in the face of heavy anti-aircraft fire and air opposition. His spotting, performed under extremely hazardous conditions, contributed greatly to the success of the bombardment of enemy positions. His reconnaissance flights, many of which carried him deep into enemy territory, were of great value to our assaulting forces. The heroism, resourcefulness, and devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Moss, under extremely hazardous conditions, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.