The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to Aviation Machinist’s Mate First Class John R. Van Horn (NSN: 4035146), United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary achievement in the line of his profession while participating in aerial flight in a U.S. heavy bombing plane, which led to the ultimate destruction of an enemy submarine. Aviation Machinist’s Mate First Class Van Horn, on a special anti-submarine mission which commenced on 3 August 1943, and finally culminated on 11 August 1943, performed all duties at his battle station with such courage and valor that the final destruction of the enemy was assured. His last action, in which he gave his life, is a great credit to his country and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.