The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Air Corps) Christian Ihmsen Herron (ASN: 0-406130), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Pilot of a B-26 Medium Bomber in the 19th Bombardment Squadron, 22d Bombardment Group (M), FAR EAST Air Force, in action at Port Moresby and Rabaul on 2 May 1942. Lieutenant Herron’s plane was being repaired at an airdrome in Port Moresby during a bombing attack by the Japanese. He remained at his post, later joining the formation after gathering his crew from slit trenches. Overtaking the mission, he directed the formation to the target, attacking through intense anti-aircraft fire. During the return to base, mechanical trouble developed necessitating a course change for the nearest land. Before his forced landing, he gave directions for saving the lives of most of his crew, and lost his life in the crash. The personal courage and zealous devotion to duty displayed by First Lieutenant Herron on this occasion have upheld the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the Far East Air Force, and the United States Army Air Forces.