The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to First Lieutenant (Air Corps) Damon Jesse Gause (ASN: 0-421599), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy as a member of the 17th Bombardment Squadron, 27th Bombardment Group (L), Far East Air Force, in connection with during the period 9 April through 11 October 1942, in the Philippine Islands following the surrender at Bataan. Captain William Osborne and escaped American POW First Lieutenant Damon Gause, located a 22-foot sailboat with a diesel engine and tattered sails. With no charts or navigation equipment, and little fuel, the two men sailed south in the ship they named “Ruth-Lee” after their wives. Continuing south, while evading enemy patrols and despite one strafing run by an enemy aircraft, the two men neared Australia where they were picked up and rescued. First Lieutenant Gause’ intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.